The CYC is the officially recognized voice of the 1.2 Billion young people of the Commonwealth. It is the largest and most diverse youth-led organization in the world. CYC plays an integral role in advancing the youth development agenda and co-ordination of activities and policies of the Commonwealth in the field of youth. The council works for and represents the voice of all young people within the 52 Commonwealth nations.

The Commonwealth Heads of Government in Perth endorsed the establishment of the Commonwealth Youth Council in November 2011. 

Climate change continues to be a major challenge for all member states, particularly for climate vulnerable developing countries. As such, the Commonwealth Youth Council emphasise the importance of expanding access to efficient, secure and sustainable energy sources and mitigating climate change, in accordance with national priorities.