The President of Seychelles, Wavel Ramkalawan, has called for global action to combat gun violence and create a brighter future for young people during his address at the ongoing United Nations General Assembly.
President Ramkalawan urged world leaders to take immediate action against the growing issue of gun violence, stressing the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of the world’s youth. With the global youth population projected to reach 2 billion by 2050, he emphasized the critical need to ensure a secure and prosperous future for the next generation.
In his speech, President Ramkalawan stated, “For Seychelles, the Declaration on Future Generations should signal our commitment to safeguarding the rights of all those who will be born by the end of this century, particularly in developing countries—individuals who should not be condemned to a life of hardship.”
The President highlighted that the world is less secure than it was a year ago, urging a return to foundational principles of dialogue and cooperation to secure the future for coming generations.
The youth population in Seychelles, defined as those aged 10-24, is part of a nation with an overall population of approximately 130,950 as of September 2024. Seychelles ranks 193rd in the world by population size, a status that has prompted President Ramkalawan to address global issues with such urgency.
According to Amnesty International, there are over 1 billion firearms in circulation globally, with the vast majority—85%—in the hands of private individuals. Military arsenals hold 13%, while law enforcement agencies possess just 2%.
Urban areas with low incomes and high crime rates, particularly those plagued by drug trafficking, are often the epicentres of gun violence perpetrated by private individuals. The lack of access to public services and ineffective law enforcement are significant contributors to the persistent violence in these regions.
President Ramkalawan’s call for action is not only a moral imperative but also a practical necessity. He urged world leaders to work together to “be the architects of a world where no one is left behind.” His speech serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for global cooperation to combat gun violence and secure a brighter future for the world’s youth.
As leaders gather at the United Nations General Assembly, they would do well to heed President Ramkalawan’s call for collective action and a steadfast commitment to protecting the rights of all people, including future generations.
