GLP-GEfIL

(The group photo of all participants is provided by United Nations University)

On Saturday, February 1, Miu Yamazaki, a student of the 8th cohort of the GLP-GEfIL program (completed in January 2025), participated in the Youth Forum held at the United Nations University from our organization. The event featured a dialogue with His Excellency Mr. Philémon Yang, the President of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, and brought together young students and scholars to engage in discussions on the United Nations (UN), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the evolving landscape of multilateralism. Ms. Yamazaki had the opportunity to pose questions to President Yang and engage with other participants, including students and researchers from various universities.

Below is a contribution from Ms. Yamazaki herself regarding her participation in the "Youth Forum with the President of the United Nations General Assembly":

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hello, I am Miu Yamazaki from the 8th cohort of the GLP-GEfIL program.

Recently, I had the privilege of participating in the Youth Forum with H.E. Philemon Yang, the President of the 79th United Nations General Assembly. President Yang delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing that "Peace and Security," "Human Rights," and the "SDGs" are the three pillars of the United Nations, all of which are interrelated. He notably stressed that the realization of these pillars requires a solid economic foundation, highlighting the pragmatic stance that peace cannot be achieved without financial support. This perspective significantly altered my perception of the United Nations.

Given the prolonged conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, as well as the current state of American politics characterized by unilateralism and xenophobia, I am deeply concerned about the increasing difficulty for all nations to align based on shared values. As a student of the Faculty of Law, I asked President Yang about the specific and effective roles the United Nations can play in ensuring compliance with international law, including international humanitarian law.

The enthusiasm conveyed through the questions posed by fellow students from around the world was equally stimulating. Witnessing their genuine sense of "ownership" and their heartfelt desire to effect change was truly invigorating.

President Yang repeatedly emphasized that we, the youth, are the leaders for the future. “You would sometimes feel powerless, but no one is powerless.” He also underscored the importance of dialogue: “One of the greatest weapon nature gives us is dialogue.”

The entire event was conducted in English, and I might not have had the courage to participate at the beginning of my university journey. However, through the GLP-GEfIL program, where I engaged in numerous discussions in my imperfect English and participated in summer programs in the United States and France, I gained the confidence to ask questions in such settings.

I would like to express my gratitude to all those who provided me with this invaluable opportunity. Despite the rapidly changing and challenging world, I will always keep in mind President Yang's message to "believe in our own power" and "never give up on dialogue" as I continue to move forward with strength.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thank you, Ms. Yamazaki, for sharing your meaningful experience at this significant event.
The GLP-GEfIL website will continue to provide updates on such valuable opportunities for our students.

（2025/02/17）