Global Citizen CEO Hugh Evans emphasized the importance of nurturing the sense of urgency that younger generations bring to solving international challenges. Evans highlighted historical figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzai, and William Wilberforce, who initiated significant movements when they were young. He emphasized the need to harness this energy to address global issues effectively.

In an interview before the Global Citizen Festival in New York, Evans discussed the significant impact of youth activism on driving change. The festival, featuring artists like Post Malone, Doja Cat, Benson Boone, and Rauw Alejandro, raised over $1 billion in commitments to combat extreme poverty. Additionally, a new partnership with FIFA was announced, offering Global Citizen supporters tickets to matches in exchange for taking action on humanitarian issues.

Evans underscored the urgency of addressing ongoing global challenges, such as the rise in poverty levels due to the pandemic and potential impacts of climate change. He emphasized the festival’s focus on urging leaders to fully fund the World Bank’s International Development Association, halting drilling in the Amazon, and raising funds to provide education for 72 million children affected by conflict.

With a significant portion of Global Citizen supporters belonging to Generation Z, Evans emphasized the organization’s commitment to empowering young people through activism and advocacy. By providing a platform through the Global Citizen app, the organization aims to equip young individuals with well-researched policy asks to effectively combat extreme poverty and drive meaningful change.