|
 For almost 20 years now the International Secretariat for Water (ISW) has been working to make drinking water and sanitation a reality for all throughout the world. Through its awareness-raising activities, lobbying and in the field, it has always encouraged the involvement and participation of young people, who bring energy, fresh ideas and innovative approaches that are worth taking notice of. This is why the ISW, as a voice of everyday citizens, aims to make the voice of young people heard by local authorities, partners, heads of state and international organisations.
Therefore, the ISW was fully involved in this 4th edition of the World Youth Congress and contributed to its rich program. |
|
Some details on the 4th World Youth Congress |
The first editions were held in Hawaii in 1999, Morocco in 2003 and Scotland in 2005. This time Quebec hosted the event. The 4th World Youth Congress took place on Laval University Campus in Quebec from 10 to 21 August 2008. Bringing together more than 600 young people aged between 18 and 30 from 120 countries, the overall theme of the congress was youth-led development.
These events aim to bring together young people from the four corners of the world to encourage debate among the young participants on themes such as sustainable development. It is also an opportunity to reflect on how young people can make specific contributions to reaching the Millennium Development Goals (MDG).
In the context of this congress, the young people, in a section on celebration, training and action, were invited to attend and lead conferences, workshops, round tables, activities and visit organisations to help them become drivers of change in their communities and the world. These training sessions and meetings also represent opportunities for the young participants to enter into dialogue with organisations, government agencies, governments and young people living in a diverse range of situations. |
|
The Drop of Hope is a hot air balloon in the shape of a water droplet that is 24 metres high. This hot air balloon bears witness to the willingness of NGOs, governments and citizens involved in water issues to participate in the sustainable development of the planet. It is a public awareness raising and educational tool focusing on water issues.
The winners of the kiosk draw and other young participants in the congress were able to take off in the Drop of Hope from 12 to 14 August on Laval University Campus.
Download the final report (french) |
|
|
|
|
