Aotearoa Youth Declaration 2025 Participant Registrations

EVENT DETAILS:

Aotearoa Youth Declaration is one of UN Youth’s flagship conferences, aimed at providing rangatahi with both the opportunity to be heard and the tools to make change in their communities. Alongside the four-day conference held in Tāmaki Makaurau in April, AYD 2025 will include seven regional hui across the country to ensure the greatest number of young people have their voices heard.

Each April, participants aged 13-18 (Years 9-13) from all over Aotearoa come together to write a policy document called the Youth Declaration. During the conference, participants collaborate in targeted Rōpū (committee groups) to create policy solutions on a broad range of issues — from climate change to the cost of living and more. This Youth Declaration is passed on to decision-makers, including MPs, local councils, boards, and other influential stakeholders, to help shape the future of Aotearoa.

The Rōpū for 2025 are as follows:

Arts and Culture

In this rōpū, participants will explore the many ways communities express themselves through arts, culture, and sports. Discussions will focus on how we promote, encourage, and support cultural diversity in New Zealand, with a strong emphasis on Te Ao Māori. Participants will also consider how government policies can foster a thriving arts scene with excellent cultural infrastructure while ensuring inclusivity across our multicultural society.

Diplomacy

This rōpū will examine Aotearoa’s role on the global stage, with a focus on diplomacy, trade, and international relationships. Participants will discuss how New Zealand leverages its influence, particularly in the Pacific, and explore the country’s approach to global issues such as security, trade partnerships, and international cooperation.

Economic Development

How can New Zealand create a stronger economy for future generations? This rōpū will explore key areas of economic policy, including taxation, small business growth, regional development, and market competition. Rather than focusing on specific numbers, participants will debate broader policy strategies to support economic prosperity for all.

Education

Participants in this rōpū will critically assess whether Aotearoa’s education system effectively serves students and teachers. Topics will include staff shortages, Māori education, tertiary funding, literacy and numeracy rates, and truancy. Discussions will explore potential reforms to create a more equitable and effective education system.

Environment

With climate change and conservation at the forefront of public concern, this rōpū will explore how Aotearoa approaches environmental protection and sustainability. Participants will discuss emissions reduction, renewable energy, biodiversity conservation, and New Zealand’s commitment to international climate agreements.

Healthcare

This rōpū will analyse the structure of New Zealand’s healthcare system, including its infrastructure, accessibility, and effectiveness. Mental health will be a key focus, alongside discussions on staff conditions, training, and retention. Participants will explore policy solutions to ensure the healthcare system meets the needs of all New Zealanders.

Infrastructure

This rōpū will take a deep dive into New Zealand’s infrastructure, with a primary focus on public transport and city planning. Participants will discuss how to make cities more walkable, improve transportation networks, and ensure the efficient movement of goods, particularly through ports and airports.

Justice and Governance

Participants in this rōpū will explore key issues shaping New Zealand’s government and justice system. Topics will include the role of Māori representation in regional politics, the balance between rehabilitative and retributive justice, democratic processes, and the potential for constitutional reform.

Labour Rights

This rōpū will focus on workplace protections and the rights of workers in New Zealand. Participants will explore issues such as unions, fair pay agreements, minimum and living wages, workplace safety, and the exploitation of migrant workers in the workforce.

Media and Communication

In this rōpū, participants will examine the evolving media landscape in Aotearoa, including media funding, accessibility, and regulation. Discussions will also cover the role of social media, media production, and how the government communicates with the public.

Science and Innovation

How does New Zealand foster scientific advancement and innovation? This rōpū will explore the government’s role in supporting research, technology, and economic growth through innovation. Participants will discuss how to build an ‘intelligent economy’ and use scientific developments to strengthen Aotearoa’s future.

Social Development

This rōpū will focus on government policies that support communities, including housing, welfare, and social services. Participants will identify gaps in current policies and propose ways to improve government support for vulnerable populations, including Oranga Tamariki and other social initiatives.

Youth Development

Designed specifically for rangatahi, this rōpū will explore issues directly affecting young people in Aotearoa. Participants will discuss opportunities for youth, challenges they face, and how government policies can better support them in areas such as education, employment, mental health, and social inclusion.

WHAT IS UN YOUTH?

UN Youth is a non-profit organisation focused on providing civics education beyond traditional classrooms. We involve youth in critical national and international affairs through immersive workshops and conferences. We aim to inspire young New Zealanders to be active, global citizens. Global citizenship takes diverse forms, and UN Youth offers opportunities for delegates to develop their own active citizenship style.

Our work equips young people throughout Aotearoa to become informed, engaged, and critical New Zealanders, understanding their global context and the links between local and global scales. Annually, over 3000 young New Zealanders attend UN Youth events, run by more than 150 volunteers across the country - dedicating many hours to engaging youth and growing the organisation.