The Arab Office for Youth and Environment (AOYE) participated in a panel discussion organized by the School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the American University in Cairo, titled “Strengthening the Capacities of Civil Society Organizations in the Field of Environment and Sustainability.” Held on December 22, 2024, the event brought together experts and stakeholders from various sectors to discuss the capacity-building needs of civil society organizations (CSOs) active in the areas of environment and sustainability.

The panel addressed key issues, including professional development needs, by presenting a report on the requirements of CSOs in Egypt. The report, prepared by the Egypt Sustainability Network, involved a survey designed to identify weaknesses in awareness programs that need to be addressed. These programs will be tailored to CSOs working on environmental and sustainability issues, with a focus on climate change and plastic waste pollution.

The discussion also explored challenges faced by civil society, such as funding difficulties, limited access to localized data and the need for more practical Arabic-language training programs. A case study was presented by Greenish Foundation, which shared its experience in overcoming obstacles to reach decision-makers and convey civil society’s perspective.

Participants engaged in extensive discussions about ways to improve the presented survey to better benefit CSOs in designing effective awareness programs. They emphasized that training must be tailored to local needs in Egypt. The panel concluded with several recommendations, including the development of specialized training programs in environmental risk management and project financing, increasing the availability of Arabic-language resources such as scientific studies and environmental legislation, enhancing collaboration between CSOs and universities to produce useful local data. Also, designing practical programs that benefit the local needs and incorporate applied educational tools.