From November 11–16, 2019, Dharma Drum Mountain Buddhist Association (DDMBA) convened the Inner Dimensions of Climate Change Global Conference in partnership with the Global Peace Initiative of Women (GPIW) in Thailand. This meeting was a culmination of preceding Inner Dimensions regional meetings held from 2016 through 2018. Sixty youth leaders from six continents participated in the conference, which provided an opportunity for regional delegates to meet and connect with other youth from different parts of the world.
The conference opened in Bangkok, Thailand at the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific headquarters, with the support of the United Nations Environmental Program. Youth delegates moderated the sessions, which addressed the climate crisis, ecosystem restoration and the change in mindset needed to address global issues.
Following this event, youth delegates carried out dialogues in Khao Yai, Thailand during a five-day retreat. The dialogues focused on solutions and explored how to design and implement regenerative cultures and societies. Delegates also shared the work they are engaged in to address the climate crisis, while deepening their understanding of the social, cultural and spiritual dimensions of climate change.
Connections, bonds, and partnerships were formed as a result of the meeting and the youth delegates developed a communication platform to continue their work together to contribute to a sustainable future.