With the theme for this year’s World Population Day on 11 July “Vulnerable Populations in Emergencies”, UNFPA Indonesia wants to showcase the voluntary efforts of young people in humanitarian settings.
Indonesia, due to its location, is very prone to natural disasters. Tsunamis, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods and landslides have been experienced several times across the archipelago. According to Indonesia’s Natural Disaster Management Agency, BNPB, in 2014 alone, there were around 1600 natural disasters across the country. As a result, thousands of people were displaced.
Young people represent a large proportion of those affected by crises and can often face severe problems coping with traumatic disruptions in their lives, yet they are also the people who can make a difference in the time of a disaster or emergency.
“Adolescents and youth aged 10 to 24 are often overlooked during humanitarian responses, but they are an at-risk group that must be a priority,” explained Mr. Jose Ferraris, UNFPA Indonesia Country Representative, adding that UNFPA had made a commitment to young people to advocate for their rights and to empower them to do the same.
“But experiences from other countries have shown that this group of young people not only become a priorty after a humanitarian crisis or emergency, but they can also take on a leading role to support disaster relief. We need to shift the paradigm from working for young people to working in partnership with young people to ensure the development of youth-friendly approaches and actions in humanitarian settings."
As we commemorate this year’s World Population Day, UNFPA Indonesia has launched its #YouthAction Challenge, to highlight the positive contributions made by young people during a humanitarian crisis. Whether it be volunteering to help with relief efforts in a disaster or acting as an advocate for vulnerable people, we want to see and read about what you have done!
The challenge is simple.
All you need to do is post a picture and a brief description about how you have contributed to relief efforts during a humanitarian crisis or emergency.
Mention one of UNFPA Indonesia’s social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) with the hashtags #YouthAction and #WPD2015 when you upload your photo online.
The top three entries will be selected and announced on 3 July. The winners will receive a special prize pack from UNFPA Indonesia.
Submission for the #YouthAction challenge will be accepted until 2 July.
Happy posting.
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