Shaping the Future: Key Insights from Youth Advocates at HRC56

From left to right: Damilola Babatunde, Alejandra Teleguario, and Mar Márquez Guardo.

Youth advocates are the driving force behind a more equitable future. We must invest in them and ensure their voices are loud and clear in global decision-making spaces. This isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s essential for creating real, lasting solutions to protect and advance bodily autonomy, especially in the face of today’s biggest transnational threats, including the global anti-rights movement.

Women Deliver is proud to have supported three Young Leader Alumni at the 56th Session of the Human Rights Council (HRC56): Mar Márquez Guardo from Colombia, Alejandra Teleguario from Guatemala, and Damilola Babatunde from Nigeria. After the session, we caught up with them to hear about their most memorable moments, discuss how powerholders and organizations like Women Deliver can better collaborate with young people to push back against the global anti-rights movement, explore how HRC56 will impact global human rights policies, and gather their advice for other young advocates. Their raw and powerful perspectives provide crucial insights on ensuring that youth advocates are included in all global spaces where decisions affecting their lives are made.

Question: Can you share a memorable moment from HRC56 that influenced your perspective on global human rights, particularly sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR)?

Mar: The most inspiring moment for me was speaking on behalf of Women Deliver about care economies. This experience highlighted the essential role of care work in our societies and the urgent need to recognize and support it through policy. It reinforced my belief in the power of advocacy to drive meaningful change in SRHR.

Alejandra: A significant moment was seeing that the majority of state representatives were women, many with progressive views on women’s and girls’ rights, while others had very conservative visions that countered the discussion on these resolutions. It’s crucial to recognize that the involvement of women in such mechanisms does not always mean advocating for women’s rights. Some states have anti-rights narratives, which represent a setback to guaranteeing equitable access to quality of life for women and girls worldwide.

Damilola: The passionate debates and diverse perspectives highlighted the complexities and urgent need for a human rights-based approach to addressing HIV and AIDS. Witnessing the collaborative efforts of governments, civil society, and affected communities reinforced my belief in the power of collective action and inclusive dialogue. This experience profoundly influenced my perspective on global human rights, emphasizing the critical intersectionality of health, gender, and human rights. Achieving gender equality and SRHR requires robust policy frameworks and addressing the social determinants of health, ensuring marginalized communities’ voices are heard and included.

Question: How can powerholders collaborate more effectively with young people to counter anti-rights movements, and what are your goals for continuing your advocacy after HRC56? What advice would you give to other young advocates passionate about defending human rights and SRHR?

Mar: Powerholders need to actively involve young people in decision-making processes and provide platforms for their voices to be heard. This includes listening to their concerns and empowering them with resources and support to lead initiatives. My goal post-HRC56 is to continue advocating for gender equality and SRHR by building coalitions with like-minded organizations and using digital platforms to raise awareness and mobilize action.

“To other young advocates, I say: never underestimate your voice and ability to make a difference. Stay informed, engaged, and push for the changes you believe in.” — Mar Márquez Guardo, Women Deliver Young Leader Alum, Class of 2020

Alejandra: Powerholders must have the political will to dialogue with youth, ideally in executive or legislative powers, but also through channels with key entities that can act in favor of their human rights. Anti-rights movements in power necessitate building action networks to position new narratives. One of my objectives is to form a diplomatic career based on gender and youth perspectives for sexual and reproductive rights, working collaboratively in high-level mechanisms regionally and internationally.

“My message to young people is to build diverse networks to occupy decision-making spaces and make SRHR universally accessible.” — Alejandra Teleguario, Women Deliver Young Leader Alum, Class of 2020

Damilola: Powerholders can collaborate more effectively with young people by providing platforms and resources to challenge anti-rights narratives, creating inclusive spaces for dialogue, offering mentorship, and involving youth in decision-making processes. My goal is to continue grassroots advocacy while seeking global platforms to amplify the voices of marginalized populations. Engaging in broader spaces ensures these communities’ needs and rights remain central to the global human rights agenda.

“To other young advocates, I say: be resilient. Your work is essential. Keep pushing forward, stay informed, and build alliances. Your passion and dedication are crucial in the fight for human rights and SRHR.” — Damilola Babatunde, Women Deliver Young Leader Alum, Class of 2020

From left to right: Alejandra Teleguario, Mar Márquez Guardo, Lo Riches, and Damilola Babatunde.

Question: How do you think the outcomes of HRC56 will impact global human rights policies (or policies within your country)? What advice would you give to other young people considering attending international human rights forums?

Mar: The outcomes of HRC56 have the potential to significantly impact global human rights policies by setting new standards and creating frameworks for nations to adopt and implement. These resolutions can lead to stronger protections against gender-based discrimination and better safeguards for children in digital spaces. For my country, these outcomes can catalyze updating and strengthening our legal frameworks.

Alejandra: There is considerable stagnation regarding SRHR in specific regions, and the results of HRC56 discussions can generate controversies and activate anti-rights movements. Conversely, some states with more progressive governments and foreign policies open to women’s issues can advance domestic policies on gender.

Damilola: The outcomes of HRC56 are likely to influence global human rights policies by setting precedents for addressing issues such as gender equality, children’s rights, SRHR, and marginalized communities’ rights. The resolutions and discussions at HRC56 will shape policy frameworks and inform the priorities of governments and international organizations, leading to more inclusive and rights-based approaches to global human rights challenges.

Question: What advice would you give to other young people considering attending international human rights forums?

Mar: Be prepared, passionate, and persistent. Your presence and participation are vital in shaping policies that affect millions, and your insights and experiences are invaluable in these global discussions.

Alejandra: Inform yourself about the foreign policy of states regarding sexual and reproductive health, gender issues, and inclusion to identify discourses and potential alliances.

Damilola: Prepare thoroughly by understanding key issues and stakeholders involved. Engage actively, ask questions, and contribute your unique perspectives. Network with experienced advocates, participate in discussions, and take the knowledge and connections you gain back to drive change locally.

Question: How can organizations like Women Deliver better support young advocates in advocating for the human rights issues they care about in global spaces such as HRC56?

Mar: Organizations can support young advocates by providing comprehensive training programs that equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate international policy discussions effectively. Mentorship opportunities with experienced advocates and policymakers, access to resources, and creating networking opportunities are crucial. Investing in the development and empowerment of young advocates ensures the next generation is well-prepared to champion human rights issues on the global stage.

Alejandra: Organizations should create training processes in human rights and intersectional issues, providing advocacy tools, political communication, and debate synthesis. Sponsorship for attending global spaces is essential, ensuring an inclusive and representative process for diverse youth groups.

Damilola: Organizations can support young advocates by providing sponsorship opportunities for attending global convenings like HRC56, offering comprehensive training programs, and facilitating mentorship programs with experienced professionals. Creating a supportive network of peers and allies provides young advocates with the encouragement and solidarity needed to sustain their efforts.