The Himalayan Dialogue, which took place in Khalanga, Jumla, from April 21 to 22, ended with a 13-point declaration as a prelude to the Sagarmatha Dialogue, which is scheduled for May 15–17. The purpose of the event was to raise the voices of children and underrepresented groups in the Karnali area.
150 participants, including women, children, youths, members of marginalized and indigenous communities, civil society, UN agencies, and government representatives, participated in the dialogue, which was organized in collaboration with the Sagarmatha Dialogue Secretariat and supported by Save the Children, Youth Alliance for Environment (YAE), and the Karnali Integrated Rural Development and Research Center (KIRDARC).
The statement calls for the impact of climate change on Himalayan children and communities to be a top topic of discussion at the next Sagarmatha Dialogue. It emphasizes the necessity of inclusive education and climate awareness in all communities and suggests a special session for kids to share their stories.
Noting that Nepal’s efforts alone are insufficient, the statement also urges international cooperation to safeguard the Himalayas. It promotes access to funds for climate damage compensation, the advancement of organic farming and sustainable development methods in mountainous areas, and policy changes that give priority to the lived experiences of marginalized communities.
