1. Get in contact

The first step is for a youth climate organisation to get in touch with us. We specifically look for youth climate organisations that have:

The drive and enthusiasm to push for a raise in climate ambition on national and international level;

  • A youth-led organisation structure;

  • A constructive style of communication and willingness to share knowledge;

  • A stable member base or constituency at a national level;

  • A developed organisational structure and experience with the organisation of event/dialogues;

  • Inclusive non-discriminatory organisational culture;

  • NO direct ties with political parties or major contributors to the climate crisis. An independent character is preferred.

  • Capacity to develop a National Youth Climate Agenda within 2 years after joining WAT-GP.

  • Youth climate organisations that want to join WAT-GP sign our Memorandum of Understanding.

2. Organise a Youth Climate Dialogue

A Climate Dialogue is an event where the youth (representatives) of your network come together to discuss the problems and possible solutions regarding sustainable living in your country in 2050. By talking about different themes, such as transport or food security, young peopl will hear each others points of views, and will aim to reach a consensus on each identified problem and its solution.

3. Write the National Youth Climate Agenda

A National Youth Climate Agenda (NYCA) is a vision document that outlines the consensus reached during the Youth Climate Dialogue. In the NYCA, the priority themes decided upon are further explained and developed into concrete policy suggestions. This therefore represents a comprehensive ‘youth vision’ on (inter)national climate action. The NYCA may be the basis of your future advocacy work.

4. Time to lobby

The NYCA will then be used to start conversation with local, national and international policy makers. This document will make it easier for youth climate organisations to gain a seat at the table and keep the discussion going. WAT-GP helps to create advocacy opportunities for partners at various events and meetings throughout the year – especially at UNFCCC COPs. We do so in collaboration with the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which can really help open door and provide valuable connections.

5. UNFCCC COP

UNFCCC COPs are the yearly climate summit by the United Nations. For many of our partners, this is an important advocacy milestone of the year. WAT-GP assists partners in their road to COP, through logistical facilitation as well as knowledge sharing and capacity building sessions throughout the year. For example, at COP28 in Dubai WAT-GP has provided accommodation for its partners and organised two event preceeding and after COP to foster collaboration and follow-up amongst partners.