Indigenous Youth Leadership in Climate and Development Initiatives of the Mountains

Abstract ID: 3.11725 | Not reviewed | Requested as: Talk | TBA | TBA

Prerana Lama (1)

(1) Mountain Youth Hub, not available

Categories: Adaptation, Conservation, Culture, Economy, Migration, Sustainable Development
Keywords: Indigenous Youth, Climate Change, Indigneous Knowledge, Mountain areas, migration

Categories: Adaptation, Conservation, Culture, Economy, Migration, Sustainable Development
Keywords: Indigenous Youth, Climate Change, Indigneous Knowledge, Mountain areas, migration

Abstract
The content was (partly) adapted by AI
Content (partly) adapted by AI

Mountain regions and their indigenous communities are often marginalized in global development discussions, despite their critical role in safeguarding these ecosystems through traditional knowledge and practices. Policy decisions and development initiatives frequently exclude Indigenous voices, overlooking centuries of accumulated wisdom in conservation, resilience-building, and sustainable development. This exclusion not only threatens the sustainability of mountain environments but also accelerates youth migration. Indigenous youth from mountain regions increasingly migrate to urban areas or abroad in search of better opportunities due to limited resources, infrastructure, and career prospects in their communities. This migration risks the loss of traditional knowledge systems that have long supported the ecological and cultural integrity of these regions. Understanding the factors driving youth migration is essential to developing strategies that encourage them to stay, contribute, and innovate within their communities. This research explores the root causes of Indigenous youth migration, identifies ways to inspire and sustain them in mountain regions, and examines strategies for their meaningful inclusion in decision-making processes. It further highlights the skills and opportunities necessary to empower youth to sustain their cultural heritage while adapting to modern socio-economic challenges. By fostering youth-led innovations and creating supportive policies, we can ensure the continuation of indigenous knowledge and traditions, ultimately strengthening the resilience of mountain communities against the impacts of climate change.