Over the last 25 years, we've made great progress toward a more gender-equal world. Still, millions of adolescent girls and young women face barriers to realizing their health and rights. At a time when the COVID-19 pandemic has created new setbacks and deepened existing fault lines, the Generation Equality Forum (GEF), which began in Mexico City in March and culminates in Paris from 30 June to 2 July, affords us a unique opportunity to accelerate progress for all.

The upcoming Forum at Paris presents a moment for decision makers to come forward and make bigger, bolder commitments for gender equality. But real progress cannot be achieved without the meaningful engagement and co-leadership of adolescents and young people. Paris provides us with an exciting opportunity to think anew and usher in fresh ways to partner with young people to build a gender-equal world. 

In partnership with Adolescent Girls Investment Plan (AGIP) and Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Executive Director of UN Women, we spoke with adolescents and young people about their aspirations and recommendations as they reflect on GEF Mexico and look ahead to GEF Paris and beyond.