As negotiations at COP11 enter their final stretch, youth delegates from around the world are intensifying their call for decisive action to protect their health, environment, and rights.
In an open letter endorsed by 73 youth organizations representing more than 130 countries, young advocates warned that decisions taken in the coming days will determine whether governments choose to safeguard their generation or allow further harm.
Their demands center on three core themes: accountability, protection from industry interference, and policies that meaningfully address the health and environmental impacts of tobacco.
The letter urges Parties to reject industry interference, citing concerns that delaying tactics and sovereignty-based arguments are being used to obstruct progress.
Youth organizations also call on governments to “make the industry pay” by fully enforcing Article 19, which would enable countries to hold the tobacco industry financially accountable for the harms it causes.
Additionally, they are pressing for stronger implementation of Articles 18 and 5.3 to combat what they describe as widespread greenwashing and ensure the industry is excluded from all policymaking processes.
Throughout the week, youth advocates have been visible and vocal inside the conference venue. They have met with the Secretariat, WHO representatives, and national delegations, emphasizing the urgent need for measures that protect young people from addiction, exploitation, and targeted marketing of emerging nicotine and tobacco products.
Delegates say they have also been monitoring attempts by the industry and affiliated groups to influence the negotiations through misinformation campaigns and environmental messaging they describe as misleading.
“Our message is unequivocal: the decisions taken now will determine whether public health prevails over profit,” the youth coalition stated. With limited time left before the conclusion of the talks, the organizations are urging Parties to uphold human rights standards, resist interference, and adopt measures that prioritize the health and wellbeing of future generations.
On behalf of all youth present at COP11—and acknowledging the many advocates contributing to this week’s efforts—the coalition reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that young people have a meaningful voice in shaping the policies that will define their future.
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