The Path to Lasting Peace: Embracing Holistic Youth Participation in Peacebuilding 

In a world seemingly saturated with conflicts and multiple instances of socio-political unrest, it is often easy to overlook the significant role, youths must play in reshaping the future. Most of the World's and Africa's population is made up of young people, this statistic highlights the pivotal role of youths in shaping global peace and security. 

Historically, youths have consistently been subjected to stereotypes and myths, which portray them as prone to violence and destruction. However, young people function as catalysts and pioneers of constructive societal development and peace ambassadors. Regrettably, the prevailing social constructs in many societies have clung to the negative perspective of viewing youth, inherently inclined towards violence, rebellion, and destruction.  

This narrative has become more complicated in conflict situations, where youth are regarded as the primary instigators of violence and conflict. Despite their association with violence, it is essential to recognize that peace remains an unattainable dream without youth involvement and their deliberate, intentional actions towards peace, security, and solidarity.  

Youths remain a vital source of hope for the future of all nations. The United Nations acknowledged this potential through its landmark resolutions, 2250 (2015), 2419 (2018), and 2533 (2020) which aim at harnessing the power of youth in the pursuit of enduring peace. 

Despite global recognition, there is much work to be done. Holistic youth participation in peacebuilding goes beyond mere representation; it involves integrating young people into every phase of peace processes through conflict prevention, conflict resolution, post-conflict reconstruction, and transitional justice and stability. Holistic participation recognizes young people as active agents rather than passive recipients of peace efforts. It values their voices, ideas, and experiences and ensure that they have a seat at the decision-making table. 

How do we engage Youths? 

The Center for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa, through different initiatives, has engaged young people in civic engagement, as a pathway to peace and solidarity in the conflict-affected Northwest and Southwest regions of Cameroon. These initiatives have been implemented in different areas in building the capacity of young people, in areas of Administration, CSO Activism, Entrepreneurship, Politics and Civil-military relations. Involving youths in civic engagement processes enhances their participation in the various fields of civic engagement. Through decision making, advocacy and building sustainable relationships with stakeholders and institutions, young people can facilitate civic processes. However, below are ways to engage youths in peace building processes.  

1. A Change of perspective; 

The first step in promoting youth participation in peacebuilding is to change their perspective. Instead of viewing young people as problems, we must recognize them as agents of change. The shift in mind-set allows us to tap into their unique perspectives and creative energies. Young individuals who have witnessed conflict firsthand can bring invaluable insights into peacebuilding efforts, making them an integral part of the solution. 

It is crucial to remind youths at all times of how constructive and relevant they are. Therefore, if youths can be positioned as peace crusaders and made to see themselves as relevant agents of change, they will ensure that, they do not exhibit actions and tendencies that undermine their role as peace ambassadors.  

1. Creating Dedicated Youth Platforms; 

An important way to enhance youth participation in civic and peacebuilding, is by creating dedicated platforms and spaces specifically designed for young people. Youth advisory councils, forums, and committees focused on peace and conflict resolution can provide opportunities for young people to voice their concerns, propose solutions, and engage in decision-making processes.  

These platforms should be inclusive and accessible to ensure that a wide range of youth can participate. Enhancing participation structures involves recognizing young people as vital stakeholders in peacebuilding. They are not passive recipients of peace efforts but active agents who can shape and influence the direction of these initiatives. By valuing their perspectives, experiences, and ideas motivating them, to take on more significant roles in the peacebuilding process. 

Moreover, to effectively engage young people in peacebuilding processes, it is essential to provide them with the necessary skills and knowledge. Mentorship programs, training sessions, and workshops can empower in conflict resolution, mediation, leadership, and advocacy skills. This capacity building does not only equip youths with skills to contribute effectively to peacebuilding but also boosts their confidence and sense of preparedness.  

Supporting Youth-Led Initiatives: 

Youth-led initiatives and projects play a crucial role in peacebuilding. These initiatives can range from community-based efforts to larger-scale campaigns. Providing financial and human resources to such projects enable young people to take appropriate action in addressing conflict-related issues and promoting peace within their communities.  

Recognition can inspire other youth to get involved and serve as role models. Awards, honours, and public recognition can help highlight the positive impact that young individuals play in promoting peace and resolving conflicts. 

1. Quality education and skill development programs 

Investing in quality education and skill development programs for young people, particularly in regions affected by conflict, represents a crucial step towards nurturing a generation of resilient and optimistic peacebuilders. Quality education provides the foundational and knowledge necessary for understanding the complexities of conflict, its root causes, and potential avenues for resolution. Moreover, it equips youths with critical thinking skills, empathy, and a deep understanding of the importance of dialogue and cooperation.  

Conclusion 

Top of Form 

The involvement of young people in peacebuilding processes brings a wealth of innovative solutions and fresh perspectives to the table. Their creativity and dynamic nature can lead to breakthroughs that older generations might overlook due to entrenched mindsets or traditional approaches. Young individuals are often less bound by conventional thinking and established norms. This freedom allows them to approach conflicts with a fresh set of eyes, unburdened by the "we've always done it this way" mentality. As a result, they are more likely to propose innovative and unconventional solutions to complex peacebuilding challenges. 

Neneng Glein M 

Communication and Advocacy CHRDA  

The Center for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa (CHRDA)