24 July 2024

Youth at the forefront of peacebuilding

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In a world increasingly divided by conflict and mistrust, hope often comes from seamingly unexpected places. Recently, in the heart of New York City, during the 2024 United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), young changemakers from around the globe gathered to inspire, connect, and lead the way towards a more peaceful and just world. This gathering was not merely a meeting; it was a powerful call to action, a beacon of hope in turbulent times, where youth voices took center stage in global peacebuilding efforts.

GCYPS networking session. July 2024.

A collaborative effort for lasting change

Building upon the critical role of youth in peacebuilding, JISRA—a five-year Dutch-funded consortium comprising Mensen met een Missie, TearfundSearch for Common GroundFaith to Action, and the Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers—organized a significant youth advocacy mission to the 2024 UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF). This mission was more than just about presence; it was about ensuring that the voices of young people from Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria, Mali, and Indonesia were heard loud and clear in the global policy arena. These voices represent personal stories, real struggles, and the determination to create change in communities where peace is fragile.

Facilitating youth participation and leadership within the UN HLPF space was a crucial step in ensuring intersectional representation. It bridged the gap between global policymakers and the local realities these young leaders face daily. More importantly, it empowered these local actors with a sense of ownership, knowing they are contributing to shaping global policies that will impact their communities.

Voices that matter

Capacity strengthening in advocacy and lobbying efforts was essential for empowering the youth to confidently pursue their goals during the forum. Led by Search for Common Ground, a training in the ‘Common Ground Approach to Advocacy’ provided a crucial space for youth participants to learn and practice core advocacy skills, serving them well during the HLPF and in their ongoing peacebuilding efforts.

As the week unfolded, these young advocates did not shy away from tough conversations, whether discussing grassroots solutions or engaging in high-level talks. Their voices, often marginalized, took center stage, reminding us all that youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today.

One of the most impactful moments was when the youth came together to discuss the challenges and opportunities of promoting Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with key policymakers.
Through these dialogues, they explored the root causes of conflict and shared strategies to overcome them. It underscored the importance of connection—between individuals, communities, and nations—as the foundation for lasting peace.

A Call to Action

The youth mission brought together young leaders from diverse backgrounds, each with a story of resilience and determination. These are not just stories—they are lived experiences, testimonies of the daily struggle for peace in regions where violence and hatred are all too common. From the villages of Uganda to the streets of Jakarta, these young people shared how they are building bridges, fostering dialogue, and creating spaces where reconciliation can take root.

Their courage and vision are paving the way for a future where justice and peace are not just dreams but realities. As the HLPF drew to a close, one message was clear: peacebuilding is not a task for the faint-hearted, but it is a task that cannot wait. The youth present in New York made a compelling case for their role in this crucial work. They are not just asking for a seat at the table; they are building the table, crafting solutions that are inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in the realities of their communities.

At Mensen met een Missie, we believe in the power of youth to drive change. We stand alongside these young leaders, amplifying their voices, supporting their efforts, and working together to create a world where peace and justice are more than ideals—they are lived experiences for all.