Treaty of Middelburg
I believe the world needs a stronger focus on empowering youth and giving them the platform to fully participate in decision-making processes. This is crucial for building a world where freedom is not only an ideal but a reality for everyone. SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) highlights the importance of political participation, which is especially relevant for young people. Unfortunately, despite the progress made, youth are still often excluded from crucial political processes. This is something I want to change. I believe we need stronger collaboration and more opportunities for young people to engage in discussions on global issues and freedom. One way to achieve this could be the establishment of an international conference on freedom, held annually. This conference could serve as a platform where youth from around the world come together to exchange ideas, collaborate on initiatives, and work towards real, tangible change. In alignment with Resolution 2250, which underscores the role of youth as essential partners in peace and conflict efforts, it’s vital that we continue to recognize the power of young people in shaping peace and freedom. I envision a world where youth are not just passive recipients of decisions, but active participants in shaping the future. This is why I strongly advocate for mentoring programs that provide guidance and resources for young people to become leaders in the fight for freedom and justice. The Youth 2030 Strategy from the United Nations also stresses the need for stronger youth participation at all levels of decision-making. To make this vision a reality, we need to create more structures that allow young people to step into leadership roles and engage with international organizations, governments, and institutions in meaningful ways. My goal is to create a world where freedom is not just a word, but a lived experience for every young person, regardless of their background, nationality, or circumstances. By facilitating stronger collaboration, empowering youth through mentorship, and creating spaces for global dialogue, we can pave the way for lasting peace, justice, and freedom for all.
Team members
- ■ Martin Birdi
Why do you want to participate?
My studies have provided me with a broad understanding of international conflicts, but what is missing is the practical exchange. Your conference offers the ideal platform for me to express my thoughts and build my confidence in speaking about this topic with like-minded individuals. I bring a unique perspective on freedom, shaped by my studies and practical experiences. I am highly motivated to collaborate with like-minded people to shape a better future. I strongly believe that change can only be achieved through collaboration and non-violent communication. Because I aim to become an ambassador in the future, participating in this conference would be a unique opportunity for me to gain valuable insights and experience. Last year, I participated in the MUN (Model United Nations) at Oxford University, as well as two MUN conferences in Frankfurt, Germany. In April 5th 2025, I will attend the NMUN (National Model United Nations, Conference in New York. I would be eager to contribute my expertise in the conference. Furthermore, I participated in a 8 month project, named YoungUP, to advocate for greater youth participation in politics. Through this, I gained valuable experience in public speaking and diplomacy. My project focused on the importance of youth involvement and freedom. I look forward to reflecting in a safe space with others and gaining new perspectives. Isn’t it time for us to work together to make freedom not just a word, but a living reality for everyone?
What does freedom mean to you?
To me, freedom means the ability to express one’s opinion without fear, regardless of religion, race, or gender. It’s the right to speak your mind, hold your beliefs, and contribute to society in meaningful ways, without facing discrimination or persecution. Freedom also involves protection, especially for the most vulnerable, such as children and women. This connects directly to global frameworks like the UN’s Women, Peace, and Security Agenda and the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) Agenda, which highlight the importance of safeguarding those most at risk and ensuring youth are actively involved in peacebuilding and security efforts. The YPS Agenda, in fact, emphasizes the critical role that young people play in preventing conflict and building sustainable peace, advocating for their inclusion in decision-making processes that affect their lives. Moreover, freedom means access to basic necessities, such as food, healthcare, and security for all. No one should be deprived of their fundamental rights to live with dignity. It also includes the right to participate in decision-making processes that shape our future, ensuring everyone has a say in their own governance. True freedom allows for differing opinions and encourages debate. It’s the freedom to challenge the status quo, push for change and advocate for justice without fear of repression. freedom is the cornerstone of a just, inclusive society where all individuals, including youth, can live without fear and have equal opportunities to thrive.
What are the biggest challenges?
One of the biggest challenges young people face today is the lack of safety and basic rights in conflict zones. In countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, many children are forced into becoming child soldiers, a tragic reality that strips them of their freedom and humanity. While the Youth, Peace, and Security Agenda exists, reports from the UN show that despite many countries supporting the idea of giving youth more responsibility and a stronger voice in decision-making processes, young people are still not seen as true decision-makers. This disconnect often results in a feeling among youth that their voices are not heard, and they remain excluded from important political processes, perpetuating a top-down approach to governance. Another major challenge is the increasing pressure on young people in the digital age. Social media, while offering platforms for self-expression, can also expose them to cyberbullying, misinformation, and a loss of privacy due to insufficient data protection. The rise of digital surveillance further limits their freedom to express themselves openly without fear of being monitored. Discrimination also remains a significant issue. Young people from marginalized groups, including racial minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, often face systemic barriers that limit their freedom to live authentically and pursue their goals without fear of judgment or persecution. For youth in vulnerable situations, the challenges are even more pronounced. Migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees face immense hurdles, from unsafe living conditions to limited access to education, healthcare, and even basic legal rights. Statelessness, for example, leaves many young people without access to basic services, making them even more vulnerable to exploitation and deprivation.
Do you have a message?
Freedom is not just a word; it is a right that every young person around the world deserves to experience, live, and protect. We must ensure that youth have the platforms, voices, and tools to actively shape the future they will inherit. We need to move beyond seeing youth as passive recipients of decisions and start recognizing them as active change-makers.
