Youth Engagement in Peacebuilding

The youth of today constitute the largest generation the world has ever seen, yet nearly 600 million of these young people live in conflict-affected or fragile States. Because they comprise such a large share of the population in many troubled countries, youth inevitably play a major role at every stage of conflicts and social movements. From the uprisings in the Middle East and North Africa to the rise of technologically savvy violent extremist groups, young leaders play pivotal roles in the growing demand for major change. Policymakers and practitioners can build on this momentum by encouraging youth participation that is constructive, and can mobilize the potential of this generation of eager peacebuilders by partnering with them to reduce violence, build resilience, and contribute to development.