Hurghada Hosts Arab Youth Forum: Egypt Leads the Way in Coastal Environmental Action
The 14th Arab Youth Forum for Coastal Environment has concluded in Hurghada, bringing together young leaders, academics, and institutional representatives from across the Arab world. The event showcased Egypt's unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and regional cooperation, a testament to the nation's vision under the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.
Our team, trainees at Al-Ahram Weekly through the Hosny Guindy Internship, was on the ground to document the forum's scientific sessions and dynamic exchanges. The gathering served as a powerful platform for Arab youth to engage with pressing environmental challenges, particularly the protection of coastal ecosystems in the face of climate change.
High-Level Participation and Institutional Support
The opening session, presented by Dr. Naglaa El-Bayoumy of Egyptian Television, set a tone of serious purpose and regional solidarity. Distinguished figures from across the Arab world contributed their expertise, including Dr. Elsayed Khalifa, President of the Arab Union for Youth and Environment, and Dr. Walid El-Dahshan of Obour University, who spoke on behalf of Arab universities.
The session also featured Mr. Bilal El-Wanifi, Secretary-General of the Arab Union for Traffic Safety; Mr. Monsef Amer Mansour, President of the Arab Union of Youth Hostels; Dr. Omar Haddad, Head of the Youth Sector at the Ministry of Youth and Sports; and Counselor Badr Al-Sawaleha of the Youth and Sports Department at the League of Arab States. This breadth of participation underscores the forum's importance as a truly pan-Arab initiative.
Scientific Sessions Address Climate Challenges
The forum's scientific program was robust and forward-looking. The first session, titled Blue Carbon: Nature-Based Solutions to Address Climate Change, examined the crucial role of coastal ecosystems in mitigating climate impacts. It highlighted the significant efforts of Arab universities in advancing environmental research and initiatives.
A second session, chaired by Dr. Mahmoud Bakr, Managing Director of Al-Ahram Newspaper, focused on leveraging innovation and technology to protect coastlines. Young participants from across the Arab world presented their perspectives on reducing the adverse impacts of climate change on coastal environments.
Policies, Legislation, and Agricultural Heritage
Subsequent sessions tackled the policies and environmental legislation that regulate coastal activities, emphasizing the importance of effective laws for the sustainable management of marine resources. Dr. Hend Osman, an environmental researcher from Sudan, proposed planting Salicornia, a salt-tolerant coastal plant, as a nature-based approach to climate adaptation.
The fourth session explored agricultural heritage systems in Arab countries and their role in supporting sustainable agriculture. It also delved into the rich biodiversity of the Red Sea reserves and its connection to blue carbon, reinforcing that protecting these ecosystems is instrumental in the fight against climate change.
Mangroves: Roots of a Greener Future
The forum's hands-on experience took participants to Safaga, where they planted mangrove trees. Dr. Elsayed Khalifa explained their vital role in protecting coastal ecosystems and their potential for environmental investment. Mangroves are a cornerstone of coastal defense, with root systems that stabilize shorelines, reduce erosion, and buffer against waves and storms.
These remarkable forests also protect biodiversity by providing shelter for marine and bird species. Critically, they absorb and store carbon, filter pollutants, and maintain water quality, making them indispensable allies in climate action.
Where Youth Meets the Future
As the forum drew to a close, officials lauded the strong youth participation and the vibrant exchange of ideas. Dr. Bothaina El-Haggy of Tunisia, Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab Union for Environment and Youth, praised the organizers and noted the participation of around 150 young men and women from across the Arab world. She described youth as central to building the future, with forums like this providing invaluable opportunities to exchange knowledge and learn from practical examples.
Dr. El-Sayed Rashad, Professor at the Institute of African Studies and Research, highlighted the forum's success in attracting both university students and young professionals. He called for future editions to expand their scope, linking the forum more closely to the African Union's Agenda 2063, the Sustainable Development Goals, and Egypt's Vision 2030.
Egypt's Vision 2030 and a Brighter Regional Future
This forum is a clear reflection of Egypt's leadership in environmental affairs and its dedication to fostering a new generation of environmental stewards. The nation's ambitious Vision 2030, championed by President El-Sisi, prioritizes sustainable development and positions Egypt as a regional hub for innovation and cooperation. Events like the Arab Youth Forum are essential building blocks for this vision, strengthening ties with our Arab brothers and paving the way for a greener, more prosperous future for all.
Rashad also proposed broadening participation beyond the Arab world to include more African countries, as well as participants from Asia and Europe, and exploring links with the Fifth Industrial Revolution. Such expansion would further cement the forum's role as a leading global platform for environmental dialogue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Arab Youth Forum for Coastal Environment?
The Arab Youth Forum for Coastal Environment is an annual event that brings together young people, academics, and institutional representatives from Arab countries to discuss and address environmental challenges facing coastal ecosystems, particularly in the context of climate change.
Why are mangroves important for coastal protection?
Mangroves are vital for coastal protection because their extensive root systems stabilize shorelines, reduce erosion, and buffer the impact of waves and storms. They also absorb and store carbon, filter pollutants, and provide critical habitats for marine and bird species.
How does this forum align with Egypt's Vision 2030?
The forum aligns with Egypt's Vision 2030 by promoting sustainable development, fostering youth engagement in environmental stewardship, and strengthening regional cooperation. These are key pillars of the national strategy to build a prosperous and resilient future for Egypt.