Iceland- The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and Arctic Circle have jointly launched the *Hindu Kush Himalaya–Arctic Youth Leadership Forum* in Reykjavík, Iceland, aiming to amplify youth voices from two of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions.
The launch took place on 18 October 2025 during the Arctic Circle Assembly, introducing 12 young climate champions from both regions — six representing the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan) and six from the Arctic (Canada, Norway, and the United States).
The forum marks the first cross-regional youth platform linking the polar and mountain regions, both of which are witnessing rapid environmental transformations. The HKH is warming at twice the global average, while the Arctic is warming nearly four times faster — threatening ecosystems, livelihoods, and cultures.
Speaking at the event, Pema Gyamtsho, Director General of ICIMOD, stressed the critical role of youth leadership in the global climate response.
“The fight against climate change cannot be won by one region alone. Every nation must cooperate — and who better to lead this fight than the youth, who have the passion, competence, and energy to drive change,” said Gyamtsho.
Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland, emphasized the importance of youth engagement across regions.
“The Arctic Circle has always encouraged youth participation. Now, by connecting the Arctic and Hindu Kush Himalaya, we begin a new chapter of collaboration between the young leaders of two vital regions of our planet,” he said.
Under a one-year fellowship, the selected youth leaders will develop knowledge, skills, and networks to advocate for inclusive and sustainable climate solutions, bringing grassroots perspectives to global policy platforms.
The initiative underscores the shared challenges and opportunities between the HKH and Arctic regions — where the melting cryosphere, including glaciers, snow, and permafrost, is reshaping landscapes and livelihoods — and highlights the need for collective, youth-driven action against climate change.