Youth represent over half of the population in many conflict-prone countries. While often portrayed as passive victims or potential threats, young people are in fact powerful agents of peace and change.
Body:
Around the world, youth-led movements have challenged authoritarianism, promoted dialogue, and rebuilt communities after war. Yet, peace processes rarely include them in a meaningful way.
Key Challenges:
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Lack of representation in formal peace talks.
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Limited access to education and employment.
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Political systems that marginalize young voices.
Why Youth Matter:
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Innovation & Perspective: Youth bring fresh ideas and new approaches to conflict resolution.
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Community Ties: Young people often serve as bridges between divided groups, especially in post-conflict societies.
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Resilience: Youth networks have demonstrated extraordinary resilience in rebuilding civil society from the ground up.
