General Assembly at CCAMLR, UNYC 2008
The UNYA National Youth Conference is one of UNYA Australias two premier multi-division activities. Held each year in an Australian capital city, UNYC brings together over 130 young people from all Australian States and Territories, as well as New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific. Delegates to UNYC are senior high school students chosen for their outstanding abilities by their UNYA division.
The 48th UNYC will be held in Brisbane, Queensland, in July 2009. Recent UNYCs have been held in Hobart (2008), Canberra (2007), Sydney (2006), Adelaide (2005), Melbourne (2004), Perth (2003) and Brisbane (2002).
UNYC is compromised of a series of activities designed to educate and engage delegates in a number of international issues that confront the world today. Mock sessions of the United Nations General Assembly, the Security Council and other United Nations bodies give delegates first-hand experience at how the United Nations operates. Delegates will also have the opportunity to listen to a variety of first class speakers, engage in youth policy sessions and compile a Youth Declaration which serves as a statement of the concerns and congratulations of delegates and is presented to Australia governments and community leaders.
Most importantly, delegates have the opportunity to discuss the origins and solutions of problems the international community now faces. A broad range of topics will be canvassed, ranging from international and regional peace and security, Australia's role in the international community, international trade and aid, human rights, the environment and sustainable development, as well as the role that young people have to play in addressing such issues.
The conference programme is designed not only to educate but also to prepare them for engagement with these issues when they return to their communities. UNYC fosters and develops qualities of leadership, participation, communication and self-confidence for life, in an accessible and enjoyable environment.
Please contact UNYC 2009 Convenor, Charlotte Yellowlees, for further information.