Date: July 3-9, 2023
Venue: International Youth Training Centre, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Amidst the urgency of the global climate emergency, the Global Study session and World Assembly of IMCS Pax Romana gathered tertiary students from across the globe. The assembly centered around the theme of "Capacity building of tertiary students to be advocates for environmental, social, cultural, political, and economic justice." It was a transformative experience that opened many students eyes to the urgent need for collective action and inspired me to become an advocate for a more just and sustainable world. This Global Study session and World Assembly of IMCS Pax Romana is very important and significant for me, I will try to write another article.
The assembly brought together students from diverse backgrounds, representing various countries, cultures, and disciplines. The energy in the room was palpable as we engaged in thought-provoking discussions, workshops, and interactive sessions. They shared personal experiences, research findings, and innovative ideas to address the multifaceted challenges of the climate crisis.
Photo: © Argho Sku/IMCS Pax Romana
The assembly began with an atmosphere of determination and shared concern for the planet's future. Delegates from diverse backgrounds and cultures convened to discuss sustainable solutions and develop strategies for engaging their peers and communities in advocating for environmental, social, cultural, political, and economic justice.
Capacity building was at the heart of the assembly's objectives. The students participated in skill-building workshops that equipped with the tools and knowledge to effectively communicate, organize, and mobilize others for environmental, social, cultural, political, and economic justice. Experts in fields such as policy advocacy, grassroots organizing, media activism, sustainable development, and climate science guided participants through practical exercises and shared their invaluable insights.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the assembly was the emphasis on intersectionality. Participants explored how the climate crisis intersects with various dimensions of justice, recognizing that environmental degradation disproportionately affects marginalized communities. Through interactive sessions, they examined the links between climate change, social inequality, cultural preservation, and economic systems, understanding that a holistic approach is necessary for meaningful change.
Throughout the assembly, various workshops, panel discussions, and interactive sessions were conducted, providing participants with invaluable knowledge, skills, and tools to become effective advocates for environmental justice. Expert speakers from different disciplines shared their insights and experiences, shedding light on the interconnectedness of environmental, social, cultural, political, and economic issues.
Throughout the assembly, participants engaged in various group activities and collaborative projects, fostering a sense of unity and collective responsibility. The bonds formed during these interactions laid the groundwork for ongoing collaborations beyond the event, establishing a global network of passionate climate advocates.
As the assembly came to a close, students were filled with a sense of urgency and determination. Armed with newfound knowledge and skills, they pledged to become catalysts for change within their respective communities and institutions. The Global Study session and World Assembly of IMCS Pax Romana had successfully transformed us into passionate advocates for environmental, social, cultural, political, and economic justice, ready to confront the challenges of the global climate emergency head-on.
The cultural diversity at the assembly was celebrated through engaging cultural exchanges, showcasing traditional practices that promote harmony with nature and inspire innovative approaches to environmental protection. These cultural exchanges highlighted the significance of preserving indigenous wisdom and integrating it with modern environmental efforts.
Recognizing the importance of political engagement, delegates took part in simulations of international climate negotiations. This exercise provided them with hands-on experience in diplomatic negotiations and the intricacies of forging global agreements for climate action. As young future leaders, they discovered the power of diplomacy and cooperation in driving impactful change.
The climax of the assembly saw the formulation of a comprehensive declaration—a commitment to action, which called on governments, universities, and international bodies to prioritize climate justice and invest in the capacity building of tertiary students to be effective advocates for a sustainable world.
One of the participants said that “this experience ignited a lifelong passion within me to be an agent of positive change and to be actively engaged in the global movement for climate justice. I am forever grateful for the Global Study session and World Assembly of IMCS Pax Romana for empowering me and countless other students to be catalysts for a more sustainable, just, and equitable world.”
As one of the organizers and host of the Global Study Sessions and World Assembly of IMCS Pax Romana at IYTC, my heart brims with pride and fulfillment. The experiences have been nothing short of transformative, fostering profound connections with youth worldwide. Witnessing diverse minds unite under a common vision for positive change evokes an overwhelming sense of hope and inspiration.
The privilege of curating platforms that empower young leaders to exchange ideas, bridge cultures, and tackle global challenges fills me with gratitude. The vibrant tapestry of perspectives, cultures, and passions enriches my own growth, igniting a desire to contribute more to this remarkable community.
Yet, the role also comes with challenges and responsibilities, reminding me of the importance of effective communication and empathy. The bond forged with participants, facilitators, and partners forms an enduring source of joy, propelling me to continue nurturing this space for growth, dialogue, and collective action.
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