Our world is at a breaking point.
As the atrocities escalate in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, in addition to Lebanon, Yemen, Syria, South Sudan, Ukraine, Congo, Myanmar, Iran, and Israel, we are reminded of the many promises made by world leaders to listen to youth voices, de-escalate conflicts, and forge pathways to peace. Yet, these promises have rung hollow.
Just weeks ago, Girl Up youth leaders stood at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and the Summit of the Future, where leaders spoke of unity, action, and peace. But in the week since, in countries where conflicts and tensions are rising, we have seen anything but. Girls and youth deserve more than words—they deserve action. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres said, "Power is not given. It is taken." We, the youth, are taking power, demanding a future where we aren’t just surviving but thriving.
Youth movements have moved mountains before, against all odds. We do not have to stand idle. We can ACT NOW.
?? Contact your local and national elected officials and UN representatives.
?? Donate to humanitarian aid organizations like @refugees and @unicef, or groups directly supporting people on the ground.
?? Find ways to safely engage in your community (e.g. peaceful protests, petitions, phone banks, fundraisers, dialogues, etc.) and add your voice to the cause.
?? Amplify the voices of youth in conflict zones. Follow @girlup.mena, @girlupafricaofficial, @girluplatam, @girlupmexico, @girlupbrasil, @girlupindia, @girlupuk, and @girlupusa to learn more about leaders organizing for change.
This is more than just a moment. This is about shaping the future we deserve. Our world’s youth will not be silenced, and we will not wait for world leaders to agree. We demand an immediate ceasefire and safe release of all hostages in the Middle East, peace and justice worldwide, and action by those who were elected to serve the people. The time for change is now.
