Rethinking Youth Engagement in Peacebuilding

The future of peace undeniably lies in the hands of young people. With over 1.2 billion young people worldwide and over 600 million living in fragile and conflict-affected contexts, their role is crucial. As the world grapples with increasingly complex challenges, traditional peacebuilding methods must continually evolve to remain effective. This rapidly changing landscape demands innovative approaches and fresh perspectives. With their unique skills, energy, and diverse backgrounds, young people are significant partners in navigating and shaping this dynamic space. Nigeria boasts a significant and vibrant youthful demographic; about 70% of its population is under 30. This presents an unparalleled opportunity for fostering sustainable peace. Young Nigerians are not just future leaders; they are agents of change who bring fresh ideas, technological savviness, and a deep understanding of contemporary social dynamics. Their active participation in peacebuilding can lead to innovative solutions that address the root causes of conflict and build a more inclusive and resilient society.

Despite the increasing evidence of youth-peacebuilding nexus, young people’s role in peacebuilding has remained relegated to the background, overshadowed by traditional approaches and superficial inclusion that fail to harness youth’s full capacity as catalysts for sustainable peace. There needs to be a paradigm shift. This edition of the Nextier Policy Weekly calls for a fundamental change in how young people are engaged in peacebuilding.

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