bulletins: declaration on future generations

• On May 31, 2024, Permanent Representatives Brian Christopher Manley Wallace of Jamaica and Yoka Brandt of the Netherlands released the DFG revised draft (REV1) along with an explanatory note that outlined the co-facilitator technique utilized to transition from the initial draft to the revised version. 
• After the release of REV1, a virtual stakeholder briefing was held on June 12, 2024. The briefing focused on key points raised by stakeholders during the event, emphasizing the importance of engaging with individuals, especially youth, affected by drug policies. There was a call for prioritizing the rights of future generations in policy-making, combating discrimination and promoting tolerance, exploring harm reduction strategies, and empowering youth-led organizations. Additionally, the need to safeguard vulnerable populations, promote gender equality, address marginalized communities’ needs, and support global peace efforts, particularly in Afghanistan, was highlighted
• Stakeholders stressed the significance of foresight, collaboration, and youth involvement in decision-making processes to ensure a sustainable future. Recommendations were made to address inequalities, safeguard human rights, enhance youth participation in policy formulation, and reassess global peace efforts. The integration of a precautionary principle into policies, investment in young individuals, and sustainable development were underscored as crucial steps towards creating a more equal, inclusive, and just society for future generations. 

• The Zero Draft of the Declaration on Future Generations aims to ensure a better future for generations to come by promoting peace, human rights, poverty eradication, and global cooperation. Member States provided feedback on the draft, calling for an action-oriented and ambitious approach, clarity, inclusivity, and considerations for data and cultural aspects. They also highlighted the importance of economic language, gender equality, intergenerational solidarity, and the role of the UN Charter and international law. Key priorities include promoting international peace and security, respecting human rights, guaranteeing future generations’ rights to flourish, preserving a sustainable environment, and strengthening the multilateral system for collaboration and trust-building.

• The General Assembly committed in Decision 77/568 to adopting a Declaration on Future Generations, which, if approved, would be one of the outcomes of the Summit of the Future, scheduled for September 22–23, 2024, in New York, and annexed to the Pact for the Future. The co-facilitators of the Declaration on Future Generations, H.E. Mr. Brian Christopher Manley Wallace of Jamaica and H.E. Ms. Yoka Brandt of The Netherlands held virtual informal consultations with stakeholders on January 15 and 16, 2024, in advance of the intergovernmental negotiations scheduled for the second quarter of 2024. Separate consultations were held with Youth and Indigenous Groups; United Nations Agencies, Funds, and Programs; Civil society organizations, Research institutions, Academia; and the Private sector.