Photos from the Conference

In today’s world, with growing inequality, an ominous climate crisis and growing social unrest, new approaches and solutions need to be found. Growth alone and current, traditional development models are unable to provide an efficient answer to the social, economic and environmental challenges of our time. They are also unable to facilitate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which require accelerated efforts, bold thinking and innovation.

Is the concept and objective of well-being the answer?

The transition to a well-being approach requires fundamental changes in the conceptualization and development of policies and the measuring of progress. Several countries are leading the way in implementing this approach in their national development policies, budgets, legislation and programmes at both the national and local levels.

The Conference will be based primarily on the sharing of policies and creative practices that promote well-being and happiness with a focus on how such policies and practices contribute to youth empowerment. Young parliamentarians, as political leaders closest to the youngest generations, can play a critical role in amplifying the voices of young people and translating their interests into concrete action.

The sessions of the Conference will focus on the following main themes:

• Well-being and happiness as core elements of the SDGs;
• Policymaking for well-being and its effect on youth empowerment: Case studies from around the world to be presented by young parliamentarians; 
• Measuring well-being and exercising oversight of policy implementation.

The Conference will also include sessions devoted to mentorship as well as training in leadership and communications skills for young MPs.

The Conference is open to young men and women members of national parliaments as well as IPU observers and selected youth organizations, networks and associations.