Young Indian Leader from Kashmir to Engage with President of the UN General Assembly at 80th Session

SRINAGAR, JANUARY 25 Sehar Khan, a young leader, Research Scientist, and Environmental Activist from Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, will participate in the Civil Society Town Hall with H.E. Annalena Baerbock, President of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, to be held on 29 January 2026 at the United Nations Headquarters, New York.
The Town Hall, convened under the theme “Better Together: The role of civil society in strengthening the United Nations in fragmented times,” forms a key engagement of the eightieth session of the General Assembly, which marks 80 years of the United Nations and focuses on leadership, reform, and strengthening multilateralism.
Following her recent participation in high-level United Nations engagements, Sehar Khan’s presence at this forum reflects the growing recognition of India’s youth voices in global decision-making spaces. Representing the aspirations of a new generation, she will engage in dialogue with the President of the General Assembly alongside civil society leaders, researchers, and youth representatives from across the world.
The Town Hall will provide a platform for civil society to offer concrete recommendations on reforming the United Nations to ensure it remains fit-for-purpose in the 21st century, while advancing peace, sustainable development, social justice, and human rights in line with the 2030 Agenda and the Pact for the Future.
Speaking ahead of the session, Sehar Khan stated:
“At a time when the multilateral system faces unprecedented challenges, it is vital that young voices, science-driven perspectives, and community experiences are part of shaping the future of the United Nations. Representing India and Kashmir at the 80th session of the General Assembly is both an honour and a responsibility—to contribute constructively to a more inclusive, responsive, and people-centred United Nations.”
Her participation underscores:
India’s commitment to inclusive multilateralism
The role of youth, research, and civil society in strengthening the UN system.
The emergence of voices from Jammu & Kashmir in global peace and development dialogue
The Civil Society Town Hall will take place in Conference Room 1 at UN Headquarters and will be webcast live on UN WebTV, amplifying global engagement with the priorities of the eightieth session of the General Assembly.