Participatory science takes center stage at 4th East Atlantic Flyway Youth Forum

Held virtually on 14-15 September 2024, the East Atlantic Flyway Youth Forum brought together young conservationists aged 18-30 from across the flyway to explore opportunities and challenges that citizen science projects face. Organised by the Common Wadden Sea Secretariat through the Wadden Sea Flyway Initiative, Migratory Birds for People, and Youth Engaged in Wetlands, this was the 4th annual East Atlantic Youth Forum.

The forum began by exploring the intersection of ecological issues and social justice. Participants were encouraged to rethink how people engage with the environment. The session highlighted the importance of science communication, citizen science, and activism, emphasising the need to bridge the gap between science and society. Attendees discussed socio-ecological learning, recognising that meaningful change requires a shift in knowledge, skills, and attitudes across individuals, groups, and institutions.

The focus then shifted to defining community and ensuring inclusive engagement. Participants reflected on the role of branding and sustainability, while also addressing the importance of social justice in conservation work. They explored a successful citizen science project, "Diamonds on the Soles of Our Feet," which demonstrated how it has engaged communities from the beginning. The session also introduced the "ten guiding principles of citizen science," encouraging attendees to apply them in their own work.

The last session addressed the ethical considerations of working with communities, emphasising research integrity and the challenges that arise. Participants learned about the ethical circle, which connects concerns from the individual to the community and the broader universe. The session delved into the importance of building trust, capturing authentic voices, and maintaining care in conservation work, with discussions on deep democracy and the boundaries between art and science.

By supporting deeper connections between science, society, and ethics, the East Atlantic Flyway Youth Forum will continue to aim to inspire new generations of conservation leaders to make positive changes in flyway conservation.