SEAFDEC Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center
The SEAFDEC Deputy Secretary-General and Deputy Chief of the SEAFDEC Training Department, Mr. Koichi Tahara, delivered a keynote speech at the 5th International Youth Forum themed “Empowering Youth for a Just, Inclusive, and Sustainable Future” on 22 August 2025 at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, Thailand. The Forum brought together young leaders aged 18–35 from over 90 countries, along with representatives from UN bodies, governments, non-government organizations, academia, and social innovators.
Addressing youth delegates from over 90 countries, Mr. Tahara emphasized the importance of youth engagement in driving innovation and leadership for sustainable fisheries and blue economy. He highlighted the challenges being faced by aquatic resources such as overfishing, climate change, and habitat degradation; nonetheless, encouraged the young leaders that can transform these challenges into opportunities through innovation, stewardship, and collaboration. Reaffirming the commitment of SEAFDEC to youth empowerment, Mr. Tahara underscored that supporting young people in sustainable fisheries and blue economy initiatives is a vital investment in resilient communities and a healthier planet. Together with youth leaders worldwide, SEAFDEC stands ready to advance a just, inclusive, and sustainable future for fisheries and our oceans.
