Monrovia, Liberia — June 2026 | YIL-Network Newsroom
The Youth International Leadership Institute (YIL-Network), Inc., has received formal accreditation from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), granting the organization Observer Status to the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) and its subsidiary bodies. This milestone represents a landmark achievement in YIL-Network’s journey and its commitment to championing youth voices in global environmental governance.
The accreditation, awarded by UNEP’s Civil Society Unit under the Governance Affairs Office, was conferred in accordance with Rule 70 of the Rules of Procedure of the United Nations Environment Assembly. YIL-Network joins a growing community of non-governmental organizations recognized by UNEP as active stakeholders in the global environmental policy process.
“This accreditation is not just a recognition of YIL-Network it is a seat at the table for every young person across the continent of Africa and behind who believes that their voice matters in shaping the world’s environmental future.”
Francis Masaline Founder & CEO, Youth International Leadership Institute (YIL-Network)
What Observer Status Means for YIL-Network
UNEP accreditation serves as the primary entry point for Major Groups and Stakeholders into policy dialogue at UNEP. As an accredited organization, YIL-Network is now empowered to engage directly in the processes leading up to and during sessions of the United Nations Environment Assembly, including:
❖Participation in Regional Consultation Meetings held in preparation for the UN Environment Assembly
❖Contributing to Regional Civil Society Statements towards UNEP and the Assembly
❖Receiving unedited working documents of the UN Environment Assembly simultaneously with the Committee of Permanent Representatives (CPR)
❖Submitting written contributions to UNEA working documents for distribution to Member States through the CPR
❖Attending plenary sessions of the Committee of the Whole and Ministerial Consultations as observers
❖Circulating written statements to Governments as official information documents through the UNEP Secretariat
❖Delivering oral statements during discussions at the United Nations Environment Assembly
A Strategic Milestone for Youth-Led Climate Action
Founded with a mission to cultivate the next generation of leaders in Liberia and across the African continent, YIL-Network has steadily grown its programming and partnerships around youth leadership, climate action, and civic engagement. This UNEP accreditation elevates the organization’s capacity to influence policy at the highest levels of international environmental governance.
The organization’s presence on the global stage comes at a critical moment. With Liberia facing the compounding pressures of deforestation, coastal erosion, flooding, and climate-driven food insecurity, YIL-Network’s accreditation positions Liberian youth as active contributors — not merely recipients — of international climate solutions.
YIL-Network will be officially listed in the UNEP List of Accredited Organizations with Observer Status, published online through UNEP’s civil society engagement portal. The organization will also receive regular communications from the Major Groups Facilitating Committee (MGFC) and UNEP’s Civil Society Unit, ensuring sustained engagement with the global environmental agenda.
ABOUT THE UN ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMME (UNEP)
The United Nations Environment Programme is the leading global authority on the environment. Established in 1972, UNEP sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the sustainable development of the world ecosystem, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. More information: www.unep.org
Looking Ahead
With this accreditation formally confirmed, YIL-Network will begin engaging with regional consultation processes and exploring opportunities to present youth perspectives on climate, biodiversity, and sustainable development at forthcoming sessions of the United Nations Environment Assembly. The organization calls on its partners, members, and stakeholders across Liberia and the region to join in this next chapter of impact.
YIL-Network is required to file a report of its activities to UNEP every four years from the date of accreditation, reinforcing its accountability and continued engagement with the United Nations system.
MEDIA & CONTACT INFORMATION
Media & Inquiries
Francis Masaline
Founder / Chief Executive Officer
YIL-Network, Inc.
Email: francis.masaline@gmail.com
Tel: +231 776 795 805
WhatsApp: +231 555 458 971Organization Contact
Youth International Leadership Institute
St. Paul Bridge, Adjacent Riverside Resort & Villa
10501 Monrovia, Liberia
Email: yilnetwork1@gmail.com
UNEP Accredited NGO — Observer Status
YIL-Network, Inc. • UNEP Accredited Organization • Monrovia, Liberia • June 2026
