Youth and Peace Building: A Key to Sustainable Development

Youth and Peace Building: A Key to Sustainable Development

Mohammed Saaida

Department of International Relations and Diplomacy, Faculty of Administration Sciences and Informatics, Al-Istiqlal University, Jericho – Palestine.

Email: confador@gmail.com

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7488-9832

Peace building is an essential aspect of sustainable development, and youth play a crucial role in this process. As the future leaders and changemakers, young people have the potential to drive positive transformation in their communities and promote lasting peace. This article will explore the role of youth in peace building and discuss how they can contribute to sustainable development.

Youth participation in peace building is critical because they bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and energy to the table. Young people are more likely to be open-minded and willing to challenge traditional norms and practices that perpetuate conflict. Moreover, they are often more accessible to marginalized groups and can act as bridges between different communities. By engaging youth in peace building initiatives, we can tap into their unique strengths and create inclusive, participatory processes that lead to sustainable outcomes.

One example of successful youth involvement in peace building is the Kenya Youth Empowerment Project. Launched in 2018, the project aimed to address the root causes of extremism by providing training and resources to young people. The program focused on developing life skills, leadership abilities, and promoting social inclusion. As a result, participants reported increased confidence, improved relationships with community members, and a greater sense of purpose. This initiative demonstrates the power of youth engagement in peace building and highlights the need for similar programs globally.

The benefits of involving youth in peace building efforts extend beyond the immediate goals of conflict resolution. By empowering young people, we invest in the long-term stability and prosperity of our communities. Research has shown that when youth feel valued and included, they are less likely to engage in violent extremism and more likely to become active citizens

The benefits of involving youth in peace building efforts extend beyond the immediate goals of conflict resolution. By empowering young people, we invest in the long-term stability and prosperity of our communities. Research has shown that when youth feel valued and included, they are less likely to engage in violent extremism and more likely to become active citizens working towards positive change.

Moreover, youth involvement in peace building can also foster intergenerational dialogue and cooperation. By bringing together younger and older generations, we can bridge the gap between past and present, and build a shared vision for the future. This can help to heal historical wounds and promote reconciliation, which is especially important in post-conflict settings where intergenerational trauma may be prevalent.

Youth and peace building are intimately linked. Young people have the potential to drive positive change and promote lasting peace, but they require support and opportunities to do so. By investing in youth and prioritizing their involvement in peace building initiatives, we can create a more equitable, just, and sustainable future for all.

To achieve this goal, it is essential that policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders work together to create enabling environments for youth participation. This includes providing training and capacity-building programs, providing training and capacity-building programs, creating safe spaces for youth to express themselves, and addressing the underlying structural issues that prevent youth from fully participating in peace building processes.

Additionally, it is crucial to recognize and value the diverse experiences and perspectives that young people bring to the table. Youth have unique insights into the challenges facing their communities, and their contributions can help to identify innovative solutions to complex problems. By embracing diversity and inclusivity, we can harness the full potential of youth in peace building and create more effective and sustainable outcomes.

Finally, it is essential to acknowledge the risks and challenges associated with youth participation in peace building. Young people may face discrimination, marginalization, and even violence for their efforts to promote peace and justice. Therefore, it is crucial to provide appropriate support and protection mechanisms for young peacebuilders provide appropriate support and protection mechanisms for young peacebuilders, such as mentorship programs, legal aid, and psychological support services. These measures can help mitigate the risks faced by young peacebuilders and enable them to continue their vital work without fear of reprisals or harm.

Furthermore, it is important to recognize the importance of intergenerational dialogue and collaboration in peace building. Young people can learn valuable lessons from the experiences of older generations, while older generations can benefit from the fresh perspectives and innovative approaches brought by young people. By fostering intergenerational partnerships, we can create a more inclusive and effective approach to peace building that addresses the needs and aspirations of all members of society.

In addition, technology can play a powerful role in amplifying the voices of young peacebuilders and connecting them with others around the world. Social media platforms, online forums, and other digital tools can provide a platform for young people to share their stories, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects that promote peace and understanding. By leveraging technology in these ways, we can create a more connected and resilient global community that is better equipped to address the challenges of the 21st century.

In conclusion, young people have a critical role to play in shaping the future of peace building and resolving conflicts around the world. By supporting and empowering young peacebuilders, we can create a more inclusive, effective, and sustainable approach to peace building that benefits all members of society. Together, we can build a brighter future for ourselves and future generations.

This paper is a part of “Science For All Publications”

	Science For All Publications
July 2023 Electronic Publications Vol: 1 Issue: 1 pp. 1-3	Self-publication Project References Number (SFAP 230724/2)