"Youth Speak, We Listen": Young voices drive change at XII Global Baku Forum

At the XII Global Baku Forum, a panel discussion titled "Youth Speak, We Listen" was held, offering a platform for the younger generation to present their vision for addressing global challenges.

The event, which took place on March 15, saw young representatives engage in a lively debate on key topics such as the climate agenda, political issues, investment opportunities, and entrepreneurship development, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

During the discussion, the youth panellists not only highlighted the major challenges faced by modern society but also proposed practical solutions for overcoming these obstacles. A key focus was on how young people can influence decision-making processes and contribute to positive global change. They emphasized the need for intergenerational dialogue, innovation, and international cooperation as essential elements for tackling pressing global issues.

Leyla Hasanova, a COP29 Youth Climate Champion, was one of the panellists. She stressed the importance of amplifying the voices of young people on climate change and advocating for the inclusion of their ideas in global decision-making. Hasanova called for greater support for youth-led initiatives at the global level.

The Global Baku Forum has once again gathered a diverse group of influential figures, including presidents, prime ministers, ministers, parliamentarians, former heads of state, and representatives from international organizations. As in previous years, the forum addresses critical issues surrounding contemporary global challenges and the need to rethink the current global order.

The Nizami Ganjavi International Centre, which organizes the forum, was established by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in 2012 to commemorate the 870th anniversary of the birth of the famous poet and philosopher Nizami Ganjavi. Over the years, the Centre has grown into a key institution for tackling global challenges and fostering dialogue between nations. Its increasing prominence reflects Azerbaijan’s rising diplomatic influence and President Aliyev’s growing support on the international stage.

This year’s forum has brought together approximately 400 participants, including at least 50 current and former heads of state, prime ministers, heads of UN organizations, Nobel laureates, scientists, and experts. The discussions have covered a wide range of crucial issues, such as multilateral diplomacy, the evolving multipolar world order, post-conflict reconstruction, and the role of middle powers in global governance.

The forum also hosted sessions on critical topics, including “Geopolitical Change: Responsible Partnership vs. Competition,” “Revisiting Multilateralism for a Multipolar World,” and “The UN Pact for the Future: Building a New Global Consensus.” Additionally, the Nizami Ganjavi International Prize for 2025 will be awarded to a distinguished public figure for their significant contributions to peace and harmony.

Further enriching the forum’s agenda were sessions on “The Road to Peace,” “Middle Powers in the New World Order,” and “Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Regional Stability.” These sessions sparked deep discussions among global leaders on ways to promote long-term peace and stability.

By Tamilla Hasanova