{"id":237483,"date":"2024-12-20T13:12:30","date_gmt":"2024-12-20T12:12:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.iucn.nl\/?p=237483"},"modified":"2024-12-20T18:10:49","modified_gmt":"2024-12-20T17:10:49","slug":"a-generation-under-fire-youth-struggle-with-climate-and-land-loss-in-bolivia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.iucn.nl\/en\/publication\/a-generation-under-fire-youth-struggle-with-climate-and-land-loss-in-bolivia\/","title":{"rendered":"A generation under fire: youth struggle with climate change and land loss in Bolivia"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Sadness, helplessness and anger are the collective emotions expressed by youth in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. In May 2024, a qualitative transdisciplinary research study revealed that these young individuals possess a nuanced understanding of the drivers of land loss, including deforestation, slash-and-burn agriculture and land grabbing, often exacerbated by climate change. Youth recognise that the compounded effects of climate change, such as rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns, increase the frequency and severity of disasters like wildfires.<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n\n
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This article is written <\/strong>by <\/strong>Yesica Chavez, who conducted the research for her master’s thesis on global health supported by the \u00d1embi Guasu project<\/a>. Photos on this page: \u00a9 Yesica Chavez<\/mark><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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Youth, climate change and mental health<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n
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The study focused on Bolivia, specifically the Santa Cruz territory, due to its critical role as one of the largest contributors to deforestation globally and its alarming rate of land loss, which significantly impacts the environment and local communities. Given that the youth represent a substantial population group in Bolivia, particularly in Santa Cruz, understanding their perceptions and experiences related to climate change and land loss is essential for identifying the psychological effects these issues have on their mental well-being and identity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n

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 The findings aim to highlight the urgent need for further research on the mental health impacts of climate change, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Bolivia, where existing support systems may be insufficient to address the unique challenges faced by vulnerable populations. Engaging youth in this discourse not only empowers them but also fosters a deeper connection to environmental stewardship, ultimately driving more effective climate action.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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Youth protests in 2024<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n
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The investigation was conducted prior to the massive wildfires that have silently ravaged the country in 2024<\/a>. Although these wildfires have not received global attention, like those in 2019, the youth were determined not to accept the status quo in the face of increasingly severe wildfire seasons. Since August 2024, widespread protests involving youth, adults, firefighters, Indigenous communities and government officials have called for action against the wildfires. Participants are demanding the repeal of laws that permit slash-and-burn agriculture, the primary driver of these fires, which have devastated millions of hectares. Their objective is to advocate for forest protection and community safety while holding decision-makers accountable for the harm inflicted on local populations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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RED SCZ youth event in Santa Cruz hosted by La gobernacion de cambio climatico<\/mark><\/em>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
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Key recommendations to improve youth engagement<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n
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This study underscores the interconnected impacts of climate change and land loss on youth, revealing that they are not just victims but potential agents of transformative change. Their nuanced understanding emphasises the urgent need for increased awareness and engagement with environmental issues, particularly regarding mental health and identity. The recommendations were organised in four buckets: awareness, resilience, adaptation and policy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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Awareness<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n\n
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