Future generations

The idea of future generations is gaining ground. In September 2024, the UN passed a Declaration on Future Generations as part of the Pact for the Future. Only those who do not yet exist are considered future generations in this context.

Like human rights, future generations is a big idea. We all want future generations to exist. That can bring us together and can help clarify objectives. But caring for those who do not yet exist is difficult. Institutions and legislation can help us, but need broad support. Art and cultural practices can help to make future generations felt, see the exhibition Good Ancestors: Art and Culture for Future Generations in September 2024 at the UN.

We take future generations for granted. And often at the same time expect an end of the world. Neither is inevitable from human perspective. For a long future we humans need to find ways to survive our progress. We will do that together - or not at all.