Global Youth Coalition Member Feature: Sahar Salem

1. Where are you connected right now? Tell us about the work you're doing.
I am a consultant at a UNICEF/ GIFT project on the public participation of the youth in Egypt, also I am an Editor/ Translator at MENA News Agency. Regarding the domain of Road Safety and Sustainable Mobility, I participated as an organizer and Facilitator in the “Art for Vulnerable Road Users” project which is one of the Local Actions Winners, empowered by the Global Youth Coalition for Road Safety. I enjoyed being part of such a project and worked with Shehab Abu Zeid who motivated us by sharing his knowledge and experiences.

2. How did you first get involved in road safety and how long have you been?
I was first involved in road safety when I participated as an organizer and facilitator of the Art for Vulnerable Road Users The "Art for vulnerable road users" in Cairo in 2022-2023, under the supervision of the Global Youth Coalition for Road Safety. Before then, I participated in many raising awareness activities, organized by the Nada Foundation for Safer Egyptian Roads I have been involved in the sustainable mobility field for more than three years.

3. Can you tell us a little about your area's road safety and sustainable mobility situation?
Road safety and sustainable mobility are important global concerns. Many regions and countries are actively working towards improving road safety and promoting sustainable transportation options. This includes initiatives such as implementing traffic regulations, improving infrastructure, promoting public transportation systems, encouraging cycling and walking, and raising awareness about safe driving practices.

In my country, the status of road safety in Egypt has been a concern for many years. Egypt has one of the highest rates of road traffic accidents in the world, with thousands of fatalities and injuries reported annually. Factors contributing to this issue include poor infrastructure, inadequate law enforcement, reckless driving behaviors, and lack of awareness about road safety measures.

Moreover, Youth is one of the most affected groups by road traffic crashes. Despite the efforts of the government, there is still much work to be done to improve road safety in Egypt. Continued investment in infrastructure development, better enforcement of traffic laws, and increased education and awareness programs are crucial steps towards reducing the number of accidents and making roads safer for everyone.

4. Why do you think it's important to include young people in local and global road safety efforts?
This is very important and crucial because road crashes are considered to be the number one killer of young people. Youth in Egypt presented around 60% of the whole population. By involving young people in local and global road safety efforts, we not only address their specific needs but also tap into their potential as agents of change and role models for a safer future on the roads.

In addition, including young people in local and global road safety efforts is crucial for several reasons:

• High-risk group: Young people, particularly those in the age group of 15-29, are more vulnerable to road traffic accidents. Involving them in road safety initiatives can help address their specific needs and concerns, as well as empower them to make safer choices on the roads.

• Behavior change: Young people often have a significant influence on their peers and communities. By engaging them in road safety efforts, we can leverage their potential to promote positive behavior change among their peers, such as wearing seat belts, avoiding distracted driving, and obeying traffic rules.

• Long-term impact: Investing in young people's road safety education and awareness can have long-term benefits. By instilling safe driving habits early on, we can shape responsible road users who will continue to prioritize safety throughout their lives.

• Sustainable development: Road safety is closely linked to sustainable development goals such as health, education, and social equity. Engaging young people in road safety efforts aligns with broader agendas of promoting well-being and creating safer communities.
  
  

5. Are there any other updates on your work you would like to share?
Yes, one of the most fruitful experiences I had was during the “Urban Lab Camp” in the “Month of Sustainable Cities” where I attended a series of activities under the theme of sustainable development and facing climate change. For me, this event highlighted that we can not achieve a sustainable city without prioritizing the safety of our streets. I also joined the “Mediterranean Initiative for Climate in New Alamein City” in the midst of Egypt's hosting of the conference of parties COP27. The initiative discussed some political topics on both Global and local levels of climate change.

6. Why did you join the Global Youth Coalition for Road Safety?
As a result of my interest and passion in giving the marginalized people the opportunity to express themselves and their opinions, I completed my master's thesis on the Marginalization in Egypt.

In Egypt, Vulnerable road users, whether pedestrians or cyclists, are marginalized, putting them at risk of injury and death. I believe that the Global Youth Coalition for Road Safety is the voice of these groups the youth and the vulnerable road users in the global arena, and through our common efforts, we can prioritize the road safety agenda on the international level, and be the voice of the voiceless to make our future more inclusive, safer, and sustainable.

7. What are your comments on the Youth Coalition? Its activities? Its opportunities?
The Youth Coalition plays a pivotal role in empowering young people: It provides a platform for young individuals to actively participate in road safety initiatives, empowering them to make a difference in their communities. It also has a tangible influence on the global agenda brought on by its efforts of uniting youth from all over the world. It fosters collaboration and knowledge-sharing on road safety issues across different regions and cultures.

The most critical role of the Youth Coalition, in my view, is advocacy and awareness. The Youth Coalition raises awareness about road safety through campaigns, events, and educational programs, helping to promote safer behaviors among young people.

8. Any messages for people who have not yet joined the Youth Coalition?
The Global Youth Coalition for Road Safety is an important initiative that aims to empower young people to take action and make a difference in road safety. Knowing that road accidents are one of the leading causes of death among young people worldwide, it’s time for us to take a stand and make a change!

Joining this coalition means joining a global movement of like-minded individuals who want to make a positive impact. Together, we can raise awareness, advocate for better infrastructure, promote safe driving habits, and support each other in our efforts.