His Majesty's Speech at the Opening of the Commonwealth Young People's International Decision-making Conference

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed delegates, and distinguished guests, I am truly delighted to have the opportunity to address you all today as we come together to discuss a topic of paramount importance: the role of young people in decision making. As Head of the Commonwealth, it is my great honor to lead a family of nations that is built on the shared values of democracy, human rights, and sustainable development. We gather here today, not only as representatives of various governments and institutions, but also as individuals who possess unique experiences and perspectives. Each of us, without exception, has an essential role to play in shaping the future of our beloved Commonwealth, and beyond. The world we live in today is experiencing an extraordinary surge of global challenges. Climate change, socioeconomic disparities, political upheavals, and humanitarian crises, to name a few, demand our utmost attention. It is only through a collaborative approach that we can rise to these challenges and build a more inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous future. The young people we speak of today are more than just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the innovators, disruptors, and game-changers that hold the key to unlocking a brighter future for our world. Their creative ideas, boundless energy, and extraordinary resilience provide a wellspring of hope. It is therefore crucial that we not only listen to the voices of our youth but ensure that their ideas influence and shape decision-making at every level of governance. This not only requires recognition of their talent and ambition but also demands the establishment of institutions and mechanisms that facilitate their active participation in public life. To achieve this, we must invest in education, youth programs, mentorship, and support systems that equip young people with the skills and knowledge to positively impact their communities and nations. Furthermore, we must prioritize digital inclusion and deliver equitable access to technology, recognizing its profound role in shaping the opportunities and horizons of this generation. I encourage you, as esteemed delegates, to take charge in developing initiatives that recognize the centrality of youth engagement and capitalize on the potential of our youth population. We must break through stereotypes, challenge conventions, and challenge ourselves to create new avenues for progress, with young people at the helm. Today, as we set forth on this journey to ensure that young voices are an integral part of our decision-making processes, let us remember that our strength as a Commonwealth lies in our unity in diversity. We must stand together in empowering young people, in creating opportunities for them to thrive, and in working with them to overcome the obstacles that they face. In closing, I would like to express my unwavering confidence in the indomitable spirit of our youth. Together, with their engagement, energy, and determination, there is no challenge too great to overcome. Our Commonwealth will continue to flourish and grow, hand in hand with the young people who are not just our future, but our present and our promise. Thank you.