Raising Our Voices: The Power of Youth at the 3rd World Youth Assembly

Marrakech became the epicentre of youth-led road safety advocacy as over 200 young leaders from 100+ countries gathered for the 3rd World Youth Assembly for Road Safety. More than just an event, the Assembly was a powerful declaration: young people are not just asking for change—they are leading it.

From the very first moment, the energy in the room was undeniable. Conversations didn’t just focus on the challenges young people face on the roads but on the solutions they are driving forward. It was clear: youth are not waiting for permission to lead. They are pushing for real commitments—ones that go beyond promises and turn into action.

At the heart of the discussions were three key demands:

1️⃣ Invest in Youth Solutions: Governments and stakeholders must double down on funding youth-led initiatives that tackle speed, helmet safety, and safer mobility systems. Young people already have the solutions—it’s time to scale them up.

2️⃣ Team Up Across Generations: When youth perspectives and energy meet multi-sectoral expertise, the possibilities are endless. By working together, we can build smarter, safer systems that save lives.

3️⃣ Accountability Matters: Young voices deserve a seat at the table, not as consultants but as decision-makers. It’s time for real commitments that reflect what youth actually need and for leaders to be held accountable for their promises.

This was not just another conference—it was a movement taking shape. The launch of the 2025 Global Youth Statement was a defining moment, not just in words, but in action. It marked a turning point in how young people demand meaningful participation in shaping the future of mobility. Moderated by Sana' Khasawneh (YOURS), the launch made it clear that youth are no longer willing to be sidelined. With policymakers and global institutions endorsing the statement, the path for meaningful youth inclusion in road safety decision-making is stronger than ever.

But the real test was yet to come. As the Assembly closed, young leaders carried the Global Youth Statement 2025 straight to the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety, determined to turn words into action. They showed up, spoke up, and proved that the future of mobility is being built today—with or without those in power.

This is not the end. This is a movement. The Global Youth Statement 2025 is not just a declaration—it is our tool for change. Now, the responsibility is ours: take it to governments, push for commitments, and make sure our voices are not just heard, but acted upon.

Young leaders have spoken. The world is listening. If not now, when? If not us, who?

Melisa Perez