Frequently Asked Questions

What do young people gain from the J8?

The J8 Summit was created to build global citizenship among children and young people around the world. J8 participants learn about and develop practical solutions to global issues, in the process creating friendships and connections with young people from around the world. All young people can learn and share their ideas about J8 topics through the Voices of Youth Discussion Forum, which connects them to other young people around the world interested in similar issues.

Who participates in the J8 Summit?

In total, 39 young people between the ages of 14-17 will participate in this year’s J8 Summit. Teams of four young people will represent each G8 country and a team of seven children will represent the non-G8 countries.

How are participants for the J8 2008 selected?

UNICEF National Committees in each of the G8 countries are responsible for selecting participants to the J8 from their respective countries. Each UNICEF National Committees and Regional Office designs and carries out their own selection process, but all follow the same basic principles of fairness and transparency. The J8 website is used for the selection process in Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States and the United Kingdom, and Russia has its own national competition to select its delegates. The young people who represent non-G8 countries are selected by UNICEF Regional Offices, with one young person representing each of the seven UNICEF regions.

What language will the participants use to communicate with each other?

English will be the main working language of the J8, but support from translators and interpreters will be available for speakers of other languages.

How can I apply to be a participant in the J8 Summit?

Although teams for the J8 Summit 2008 have already been selected, young people from around the world are invited to have their say on J8 issues on the Voices of Youth Discussion Forum. To learn how to apply for the J8 Summit 2009, be sure to check this website at the end of this year for updates and information about the competition in your country.

How can I include the J8 Summit in my work with young people?

Have a look at the Learning Materials section compiled for adults and youth working with young people, with an aim to educate and create discussion around J8 topics.