GOAL NextGen Youth Support Coalition 2030’S Call for a Commissioner of Future Generations

A group of leading civil groups and trade unions, including youth activists from GOAL NextGen, have called for the creation of a new Commissioner for Future Generations to help Ireland prepare for seismic societal changes. It ties in with the start of the UN High-Level Political Forum on the Sustainable Development Goals.

Coalition 2030, along with the passionate involvement of GOAL NextGen Youth, believes the independent appointment would help in fulfilling its vision of creating an Ireland where people have access to education and decent jobs, clear air, good nutrition and a secure home, in a country where people are not discriminated against based on income, gender, disability, or the colour of their skin.

An upcoming event in Dublin City this month, which is to be attended by a cross-party representation of politicians and members of Irish civil society, will push for the passing of the Commission for Future Generations Bill. The bill had been under scrutiny by The Joint Committee on Children, Equality, Disability, Integration & Youth prior to the General Election in November 2024, but has not been put back on the new government’s legislative agenda.

Coordinator of Coalition 2030 David Rossiter said: “The 2025 HLPF is a key moment for Ireland to reaffirm its commitment to the SDGs. The Forum brings together governments, civil society, and global leaders to assess our collective progress and explore how we can deliver on the promise of leaving no one behind. This year’s theme – advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions – speaks directly to the kind of future-focused policymaking the Future Generations Commissioner would support. With in-depth reviews of goals on health, gender equality, decent work, climate and marine protection, and global partnerships, the HLPF is not just a check-in point; it’s a global call to action. While Ireland is not presenting a Voluntary National Review this year, our continued participation – including through side events and ministerial engagement – makes this the ideal moment to show leadership at home and abroad by enacting this legislation.”

Green Party TD Roderic O’Gorman said: “The Future Generations Commissioner would act as a guardian for those not yet born, scrutinising government policy, providing expert advice, and holding departments accountable for the long-term consequences of their actions. This is not about adding red tape; it’s about putting fairness, sustainability, and forward-thinking at the heart of how we govern, allowing the government to break out of short-term policy-making cycles. The world is watching as we approach key global milestones. Passing this Bill now would send a clear message that Ireland is serious about future-proofing our policies and living up to our international commitments under the SDGs.”

Labour TD Ciarán Ahern TD said: “We know this model works. Wales has led the way with its Future Generations Commissioner, delivering real results in terms of policy coherence, sustainability, and long-term planning. It has been shown how a dedicated office can challenge short-termism and embed future thinking across government. The precedent is clear, this is a proven and practical step toward better governance.”

GOAL NextGen Youth Involvement

GOAL NextGen Youth are actively raising awareness about the need for a Future Generations Commissioner through the project, ‘Letters to the Future.’ This initiative involves creating and conceptualising letters to the future Commissioner of their respective countries, including Ireland, envisioning a country shaped by the ambitions and hopes of younger generations. The project aims to ensure that the voices of the youth are heard and considered in the policymaking process of their country.

Victoria Walshe, Global Citizenship Manager at GOAL Global, said: “Our NextGen Youth are passionate about making a difference and ensuring that the future of Ireland is sustainable and inclusive. By writing letters to the future Commissioner, they are engaging in public advocacy and actively shaping the policies that will impact their lives and those of future generations. This initiative is a powerful way for them to influence the decisions that will shape their future.”