MUSCAT: The Technical Steering Committee for the “Climate Landscape Analysis” study has adopted its report, a step that reflects Oman’s efforts to make the well-being of children and youth a key focus of its climate action.

The report, prepared by the Environment Authority with technical support from the UNICEF office in Oman, is the first of its kind to study the effects of climate change on children and youth in the Sultanate of Oman.

The report included a review of existing policies and programs, identified gaps and challenges, and proposed practical recommendations to enhance national adaptation capacity, strengthen national systems, and ensure children are protected from future risks. It also addressed opportunities for collaboration among various sectors, including inclusive planning for the most vulnerable groups, such as children with disabilities.

The preparation of the seven-month-long report involved broad participation from different community segments in five governorates: Dhofar, Muscat, North A’Sharqiyah, North Al Batinah, and Musandam. It included more than 60 children, 56 youth, 30 parents and caregivers, and 48 teachers. The consultations were supervised by a multi-sectoral technical committee to ensure the report reflects the voices of those most affected by the climate crisis, especially children and youth.

Dr. Abdullah Ali Al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority, affirmed that the report represents an important national milestone in protecting children and youth from the effects of climate change. He noted that the authority will continue to work with partners to translate the report’s findings into practical steps, form sectoral working groups for implementation, and prioritize projects that contribute to achieving Oman Vision 2040 and reaching carbon neutrality by 2030.

For her part, Sumaira Chowdhury, UNICEF Representative in Oman, said that the report sends a clear message that climate action must also be child-focused. She affirmed UNICEF’s commitment to collaborating with the Government of Oman to ensure that national responses are more inclusive in protecting the most vulnerable groups, strengthening essential services, and equipping future generations with the tools they need to adapt and thrive in a changing world.

The report will be presented at the Conference of the Parties (COP30) in Brazil to showcase Oman’s commitment to human- and child-centered climate action on the international stage.