Young American Voice on People-Centered Governance
At the SCO Plus Meeting in Tianjin on September 1, 2025, the Chinese president introduced the Global Governance Initiative (GGI), a five-pillar roadmap for the future of multilateral cooperation. Among its core tenets—sovereign equality, international law, multilateralism, a people-centered approach and practical action—the idea of putting people first struck a chord with global youth.
Kyle Sykes, a college student from the United States, says the people-centered approach is more than just a slogan. “A people-centered approach means the government's decisions are judged by whether they protect lives, reduce inequality, and create shared prosperity,” he explains. For Kyle, real-world impact is the ultimate measure of success.
To illustrate his point, Kyle points to the Chinese mainland’s recent poverty reduction milestones. Over the past decade, more than 80 million residents were lifted out of extreme poverty through targeted investments in rural education, healthcare and infrastructure. “It’s a clear example of how policy translated into measurable progress for millions,” he says.
By framing governance around human needs—access to quality education, affordable healthcare and economic opportunity—Kyle believes countries can build more resilient societies. “Youth across Syria, Palestine, Vietnam and the U.S. share this vision: policies that center on people create a ripple effect, boosting innovation and social cohesion,” he adds.
As global governance models evolve, young voices like Kyle’s are calling for data-driven policies that deliver tangible benefits. It’s a fresh perspective that challenges traditional power dynamics and puts communities at the heart of decision-making.
Reference(s):
Youth Perspective: U.S. youth's view on 'people-centered approach'
cgtn.com
