Secretary-General’s message to the 20th Conference of Youth on Climate Change

(www.wydf.org.cn)   20:20, November 20, 2025

Dear young leaders,

You are meeting in the Amazon - a living symbol of natures beauty and humanitys responsibility.

The climate crisis is deepening. 

Emissions are rising. 

Inequalities are widening. 

And promises are being broken.

Science is clear: a temporary overshoot above 1.5 degrees Celsius is now inevitable.

I share your dismay – but also your determination to make this overshoot as small and as short as possible. 

By fighting back. 

By holding leaders to account. 

And by demanding action. 

Bringing the world back below 1.5 degrees before the end of the century must start at COP30 - with a credible plan to close the ambition and justice gaps.

A plan to slash emissions this decade and phase out fossil fuels;

To reach global net zero emissions by 2050 and move swiftly onto an irreversible net-negative pathway;

To protect people on the frontlines of climate chaos;

And to deliver climate finance to the developing countries and communities that need it most.

But none of this is possible without you. 

For twenty years, young people have been a driving force of the climate process – its conscience and its courage. 

Youve shown that change comes from boldness, not complacency. 

So keep demanding real, lasting results.

Make your voices heard – in the streets, in the courts, at the ballot box, and at the negotiating table.

Don’t take no for an answer. 

Because this fight is not only about climate - it is about justice, solidarity, and the right to live with dignity on a healthy planet.

Today, more than ever, we need your energy and leadership to keep the 1.5 degrees goal alive - for the world we need and the future you deserve.

The United Nations will always stand with you.

Thank you - and keep going strong.

Obrigado.

(editor: Wenjing, Guo)

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