As part of our commitment to highlight the work of International Democracy Community members around the world, we're pleased to share recent activities from Children and Young People Living for Peace (CYPLP) in Nigeria. Their initiatives bring together young activists, civil society organisations (CSOs) and community members to explore global citizenship, democracy and pathways for youth and women to take on political leadership roles.
On August 14, 2025, we gathered a group of young activists, CSOs and journalists in Kaduna State, Nigeria, for a special meeting. Organised by Children and Young People Living for Peace (CYPLP) and with support from the Young World Federalists (YWF), the event Advancing Global Citizenship and Democracy for Sustainable Development focused on how people can be active global citizens and promote democracy for a better, more sustainable world.
Twenty youth activists came together to discuss how their daily lives and local experiences are connected to big, global problems.
The day started with a few key questions written on posters, like:
"What does global democracy mean to you?" and "What is one reform you'd like to see at the United Nations?"
Attendees wrote their answers on sticky notes and put them on the walls, which led to a lively discussion. The answers were inspiring. One person said:
A global citizen is someone who knows they have a place in the world and that what happens in one country affects everyone.
People also defined global democracy as giving everyone a voice in global decisions without discrimination.
A major topic of discussion was the United Nations (UN). Many participants felt that the UN, in its current form, doesn't truly represent everyone's voices.
They called for a more inclusive organisation that listens to all people.
For them, having an equal voice in global decisions isn't a long-term goal—it's an urgent need to create a democratic world where people, not just countries, can influence decisions on issues like climate change and war.
During smaller group sessions, participants moved from talking about ideas to creating real action plans. They discussed how major global problems can be tackled through local efforts that are connected to bigger, global networks. They emphasised that young activists, community groups, and the media play a vital role in this by raising awareness, using digital tools to mobilise people, and building solidarity with others across borders.
For many, the event wasn't just about learning new concepts. It was about feeling connected to a larger fight for justice and democracy. One person shared that they had learned so much and hoped more events like this would be held so others could also discover what it means to be a global citizen.
The dialogue in Kaduna was the first of its kind in the city. It proved that when young people come together to talk about their place in a peaceful and democratic world, it can help bring us closer to a future where humanity works together as one.
