The position draws on the Student Voices to COP31: A Global Pre-COP Dialogue, co-convened with the All-African Students Union on 27 October 2026, alongside written contributions from student organisations worldwide. The dialogue brought together student representatives from more than 40 countries.
Students described how extreme heat, floods, water scarcity and displacement disrupt their education and communities. They also highlighted difficulties securing the resources needed to sustain local climate initiatives. The resulting position connects these experiences with seven priorities for governments, climate funders and education institutions engaging in COP31.
Protecting education and widening opportunity
GSF calls for education to be treated as an essential service in climate planning and investment. This means safer schools, universities and student housing, alongside emergency financial assistance, flexible assessment and support for students returning after disruption.
The position also calls for practical, scientifically sound and locally relevant climate education across school, vocational and higher education. Students should help shape this learning, with educators receiving the training and resources to deliver it.
A just transition must also create opportunities to build decent lives. GSF calls for affordable education, retraining, paid placements and student research connected to decent employment, developed with students, workers and affected communities.
Giving students influence and resources
Independent, democratic student organisations must have a sustained role in shaping, implementing and evaluating climate policy. Governments should include student representatives in their COP31 delegations and provide funding for preparation, travel, visas and accessibility.
Participation must extend beyond those able to attend. Accessible briefings, remote contributions and report-back sessions should connect international discussions with the students delegates represent.
GSF also calls for accessible funding for student unions and student-led initiatives. Small grants, application support and proportionate reporting can help students address locally identified needs, from water security and ecosystem restoration to more sustainable campuses.
Delivering climate justice
The position calls for rapid emissions reductions, an equitable phaseout of coal, oil and gas, and protection of ecosystems and Indigenous Peoples’ rights. Wealthier countries must take responsibility for their greater historical contribution and capacity to act.
Climate finance must strengthen public services, including education. Students and their communities should not bear the costs through higher fees, education cuts or unsustainable debt.
Across all seven priorities, GSF calls for clear responsibilities, resources and timetables. Student organisations should be involved in follow-up and receive a public response to their recommendations.
For students, the measure of COP31’s success will be whether commitments translate into safer learning, meaningful influence and better conditions in their communities.
