A discussion about Rio + 20 “The Future we want” Message from the Vietnam Youth sent to Rio + 20

Young people of Vietnam have the opportunity to voice their dreams and creativity and act for the future. Three main events are organinsed: A discussion about Rio + 20, a launching contest;  and the awarding ceremony.

In the roundtable discussion, 200 students had opportunites to raise questions to the experts who involved in the preparation to Rio 92 Summit, with representatives from UNDP, National Economics University, Ministry of Industry and Trade and C&E. Panellists also inspired the younger generation the voice for sustainable development with a green economy, low carbon and climate change resilience, ssocial equity and inclusive.

The panalists also emphasized the role of students of the National Economics University-the planners and economic management in the future, on green policies, green planning and green lifestyles.

There was 400 students participated in the awarding ceremony events, 9 video clips, 7 pictures, 3 poemtries, and one rap song submitted to the website, which generated 61240 visitors, 4032 shared with others about the campaign “the future we want”.

The message from students in Vietnam also will be sent to Rio+20, such as:

–          I want clean air  in the city

–          I want a good public transportation system

–          I want green and clean city

–          I want people live in harmony with the nature.

–          I want everybody to keep our country tidy

–          I want to listen to the birds’ song everyday

–          I want clean ocean, clean beach

–          I want green forests and clean river

–          I want peace and development

–          I want  equality for all

–          I want to be a volunteer working for the development

–          I want the earth green and beautiful

–          I want more green job for young people

–          I want more green entertaiment

–            ….
Most importantly, the actions of young people paved the way for adopting a healthy lifestyle and looking forward Rio+20 to further strong commitment for the sustainable future.

Do Thi Huyen

Programme Analyst, Biodiversity and Climate Change, United Nations Development Programme.