51吃瓜

The Strengthening Youth Movements for Inclusion in Local Development Policy in Colombia project, funded by UNDEF and implemented by Corporaci贸n Movilizatorio, is fostering civic and political participation among youth in Bogot谩 and Cali. Through innovative campaigns and advocacy training, the project equips young people with the tools to influence policies that shape their communities. One of its key initiatives, the Existir para Incidir (Exist to advocate) campaign, emphasizes the urgent need to protect social and environmental leaders in Colombia. 

"Colombia is the country with the most murdered socio-environmental leaders,鈥� shares Diana Munar, a representative of Exist to Advocate, reflected on the ways that they honour the memory of the people who used their voices for social and environmental affairs. 鈥淚n the green zone, the people's zone, we were hundreds lighting a candle for their lives and their memory. It was a beautiful and moving moment. We hope that no one else has to pay with their life for trying to defend it.鈥�  

In August 2024, the project launched its own social media channels, significantly amplifying its reach. By November, the Network had gained over 1,000 followers on Facebook and Instagram, reaching over 500,000 people organically and 4.5 million through campaigns. The content strategy, shaped by youth鈥檚 input, focused on diverse and authentic stories, showcasing what they do in grassroots work and on the street.  

During COP16 in Cali, the youth network mobilized over 500 participants in a street action advocating for environmental leaders鈥� protection. Under the slogan 鈥�Defending life should not cost us ours,鈥� the campaign called for the inclusion of Target 24 in Colombia's Biodiversity Action Plan. The Target emphasizes concrete commitments to safeguard those defending life and the environment. This initiative highlights the power of youth-led movements in driving social and environmental change.