Young people are not just victims or perpetrators of violent conflict. They are key actors in processes of conflict transformation and socio-political change. It is important to understand their aspirations for change and what influences their decisions to take a violent or nonviolent path.

Organised by the Berghof Foundation and Conciliation Resources, this panel discussion brings together young peacebuilders from different regions to share their experience in dealing with armed conflict.

Youth and armed conflict
Apsirations, agency and space for transformation
27 May 2021
15–16:30 CEST / (ical, ics)
Online event via Zoom I Language: English and Spanish

Click here to register here

At this event, we will discuss the challenges and opportunities for young people to respond constructively to violent conflict and the pathways to achieve change more effectively and peacefully – during armed conflict, in transition phases and in post-war reconstruction periods. What makes young people choose either violent or nonviolent pathways for change? How can nonviolent pathways be more effective? What kind of intergenerational engagement would strengthen formal and informal processes of socio-political transition and peacebuilding?

We are looking very much forward to involving you in the discussion. You can also send us your questions via email prior to the event or join our discussion on Twitter.

Agenda

Panel discussion

• Iratxe Delgado, member of the local youth and student movements in the Basque country and member of Ernai, the youth organisation of the Abertzale Left
• Mario Alberto Montiel (Johnson Carbonel), Colombian ex-combatant working on the implementation of the peace process at the community level, member of the municipal council
• Adam Thang, Program Director of Chin Center for Peace and Reconciliation (Myanmar/Burma)

Moderated by Lisa Heinzel, Conciliation Resources, and Tim Jan Roetman, Berghof Foundation

Reflections

• Graeme Simpson, lead author for the Progress Study on Youth, Peace and Security mandated by UNSCR 2250 and Director of Interpeace USA