In the last UN Necessary episode ahead of the Summit of the Future, Nudhara Yusuf and Daniel Perell speak with Uruguayan doctor and activist Felipe Paullier, the UN’s first Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, to explore his vision for empowering young voices in multilateral spaces. Felipe shares his personal motivations and the complexities of leading a new office—while trying to bridge the gap between institutional governance and the world’s youth. His reflections touch on the need for cultural transformation and reform within the UN, highlighting the importance of authentic exchange, and valuing local engagement over HQ-centric approaches.

Felipe’s deep belief in the power of institutions, despite their imperfections, shines through as he discusses how the United Nations can evolve to meet 21st-century challenges. His comments are a must-listen for anyone interested in global governance, youth empowerment, and the future of multilateralism.