Empowering Youth Leadership in Disaster Risk Reduction through Model UN activity
A Model UN conference envisioned the 4th World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, engaging 400 students from 37 schools to promote the Sendai Framework's goals for inclusive and effective global disaster preparedness.
Description
This self-organized Model UN conference engaged 400 students from 37 schools in a simulation of a future 4th World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction. This initiative, held at Otsuma Women's University on December 26, 2023, focused on promoting the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) among youth.
The primary objective was for students to deepen their understanding of disaster risk reduction, to engage with key issues and learn from new perspectives. Through discussions and collaborative sessions, participants explored various disaster risks and challenges faced by countries worldwide, examined the reasons behind these issues, and proposed actionable solutions.
Students created a background guide to deepen their understanding of disaster risk reduction. Speakers from UNDRR Kobe Office, Tohoku University, and other prominent institutions provided valuable insights, enriching the learning experience.
The conference resulted in the adoption of resolutions reflecting a consensus on enhancing global disaster resilience. This initiative not only educated participants about disaster risk reduction but also inspired them to take proactive steps in promoting resilience and preparedness in their communities.
By simulating the world conference, this Model UN initiative aims to instill a sense of responsibility and leadership in the younger generation, ensuring they are well-equipped to contribute to a safer, more resilient world.
Did the Sendai Framework change or contribute to changes in your activities/organization? If so, how?
We were initially unaware of the Sendai Framework's significance. Discovering it highlighted the importance of disaster risk reduction (DRR) and motivated us to organize a Model UN conference. It inspired us to believe that through our learning we can change the world.
What led you to make this commitment/initiative?
What was your position before making this Voluntary Commitment / prior to the Sendai Framework?
Learning about the Sendai Framework clearly showed us that we, the younger generation, should take an interest in and seriously discuss disaster risk reduction. We believe that our activities could help promote the framework more broadly. Under the slogan 'our learning can change the world', we decided to hold the conference.
Deliverables and Progress report
Deliverables
Deliverables are the end-products of the initiative/commitment, which can include issuance of publications or knowledge products, outcomes of workshops, training programs, videos, links, photographs, etc.
The conference report summarizes the Model UN simulation of the 4th World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction.
This version of the conference report is in Japanese. It summarizes the Model UN simulation of the 4th World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction.
This video serves as a summary report on the impactful activities of these students, showcasing how their learning endeavors are changing the world.