Oxford to host new annual youth climate summit on UN World Environment Day

UN Human Rights and Oxford Saïd will bring young leaders together each year on 5 June to shape climate solutions grounded in human rights

Oxford will host a new annual Global Youth Climate Summit each year on UN World Environment Day, following a multi-year agreement between UN Human Rights, Oxford Saïd Business School and the Right Here, Right Now Global Climate Alliance.

The event next June will give young people a stronger role in climate action and in shaping the technologies used for mitigation, adaptation and resilience.

The summit will convene students, researchers, policymakers and activists from around the world, supported by universities including the University of Colorado Boulder.

Its 2026 theme will examine how climate technologies — from renewable energy systems and resilient infrastructure to data tools and AI — can align with human rights standards and support a just transition.

Astrid van Genderen Stort, Chief of External Engagement and Partnerships at UN Human Rights, said: “Climate change is already harming the rights of millions of people – and young people refuse to accept a future defined by loss and injustice.

“This annual summit seeks to support youth voices in shaping the policies, technologies, and decisions that will define our shared future.”

Young people from 12 global regions will contribute through case studies, presentations and dialogues. The summit will run in hybrid form, with physical activities at Oxford Saïd Business School and a global livestream to widen access and limit travel.

Josephine Fawkes, Director of Global Inclusion and Youth Education at Oxford Saïd said. “The Right Here, Right Now Global Youth Climate Summit convenes young leaders from across the globe, offering a growing platform where they can learn from one another, develop bold solutions, and turn inspiration into action.

“Their shared commitment and collective power will shape the future of our planet – and we are proud to help elevate their voices.”

David Clark, the founder of the Right Here, Right Now Global Climate Alliance, added: “This renewed commitment by Saïd Business School builds directly on the success of our inaugural Right Here, Right Now Global Youth Climate Summit last June, which engaged participants from 55 countries.

“Oxford Saïd’s leadership and steadfast support for youth-led climate justice have been invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for their partnership. Together with UN Human Rights, we are working to support youths in advancing transformative change for people and planet.”

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_{Main image: Oxford Saïd Business School}