On October 30, 2024, in celebration of United Nations Day, Yerevan State University hosted a panel discussion and exhibition titled “Youth and Climate Change” with contributions from the “Institutional Strengthening and Capacity Building” Project jointly implemented by the Ministry of Environment and UNIDO.

The event opened with welcome speeches from YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan and UN Resident Coordinator in Armenia, Françoise Jacob. Panel speakers included representatives from government agencies and international and non-governmental organizations. Before the discussion, the Deputy Minister of Environment Aram Meimaryan spoke about the work of the United Nations: “In 1945, when the UN was founded, the world faced dangers, disagreements, and numerous challenges. Over the organization’s long years of operation, we have witnessed many achievements. UN Day is not only a celebration but also a call to action,” noted the Deputy Minister.

The panel discussion and Q&A session addressed topics such as Armenia’s climate policy, youth participation in its formulation, climate-focused legislative and civic initiatives, climate activities at both local and international levels, and methods for boosting youth involvement in these initiatives.

At the thematic booth on ozone layer protection, participants had the chance to learn about the projects’ activities, the steps Armenia has taken under the Montreal Protocol, and the advancements and significance of the refrigeration industry in the context of ozone layer protection and climate change mitigation.