WORLD FOOD FORUM 2024 GLOBAL YOUTH FORUM Mainstage Event: Indigenous Youth Voices in the Implementation of the UN Global Indigenous Youth Forum Outcomes Closing Remarks

Excellences,

Ladies and Gentlemen

Indigenous Youth,

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

Today, we are here to listen to the voices of Indigenous Youth.

You carry the wisdom of your ancestors, and passion for future generations.

You are not only the present, but you also hold the key to the future of your food and knowledge systems, and your culture.

And you are not just guardians, you are also the protectors and defenders of biodiversity and the planet.

FAO is very proud to host you and to host this event for your new meeting point!

The Indigenous Tent outside is our Indigenous Peoples’ camp within FAO – it is your new home in the centre of Rome.

It has become a symbol of the importance FAO gives to meaningfully including Indigenous Peoples’ food and knowledge systems and culture across all our work.

This week, the Indigenous Tent has been the heart land of WFF for important discussions.

And today, we had the privilege to hear from Indigenous Youth leaders from all over the world on the progress of work on the Rome Declaration – adopted one year ago right here in Rome in the Indigenous Tent!

This Declaration is not just a paper document. It is a call to action that reflects the collective wisdom of Indigenous Youth globally. Because you are the young generation to carry the baton to the future.

We have been working side by side with Indigenous Peoples, and Youth, to implement its recommendations, ensuring that Indigenous Peoples’ perspectives shape global discussions and policies.

I am pleased to announce that in 2025, FAO will host the 3rd UN Global Indigenous Youth Forum, which will bring hundreds of Indigenous Youth to Rome, again

The ancestors teach us that we should always look seven generations behind and seven generations ahead, to ensure that the current generation lives and works for the benefit of the seventh generation into the future. This was the first concept of sustainability.

Today, we have come together specifically to join hands to transform our agrifood systems and create a more sustainable world for future generations, to ensure Good Food for All, for Today and Tomorrow.

I am excited to continue working with all of you so that we can continue to think together, learn together, grow together and collaborate together!

Thank you and I look forward to welcoming you back in 2025!