The world’s population is young, with some 2.2 billion people under the age of 18. Children and young people have unique insights into solving problems in their communities, and often play a key role in the survival of their families in the event of natural disaster.

We believe that by recognizing the rights and capacities of girls and boys, young women and young men, the challenges posed by climate change can be turned into opportunities for sustainable development. This guide originates from a lively and ongoing programme of cooperation between The Alliance of Youth CEOs and UNICEF. We have joined together with other United Nations and nongovernmental (NGO) partners to build on and complement existing initiatives at global, national and local levels. The contributing organizations are committed to supporting children and young people to engage as members of society in ways that acknowledge and respond to gender roles.

Many countries are in the process of developing adaptation plans and disaster risk reduction strategies to help people adapt to changing climatic conditions where they live. We believe that it is critically important for the unique vulnerabilities, rights and capacities of children and young people to be addressed in these emerging projects, plans and policies.