In a world often marked by political turbulence and social unrest, the role of youth in fostering peace and stability cannot be overstated. Recognizing this, Youth Bridge, in collaboration with Actionaid, launched the “Youth for Peace” campaign on November 10, 2023, with the goal of engaging young people, particularly those affiliated with political parties, in promoting clean campaigning. The initiative is set to span three weeks, concluding on November 30, 2023, and has already seen enthusiastic participation from youth, political party members, and various community members.
Youth for peace campaign is a youth-led peace building initiative organized by Youth Bridge Inc. with funding from Actionaid-Liberia under the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA II).
Objectives of the Youth for Peace Campaign:
The primary objective of the week-long campaign is to engage, educate and empower young people and their movement to promote peace. Youth for Peace campaign is to equip young people with the essential skills, tools, and knowledge necessary to actively contribute to the promotion of peace within their communities. The specific focus on engaging youth from political parties underscores the campaign’s commitment to fostering clean and constructive political discourse.
Engaging Youth in Clean Campaigning:
The campaign has successfully brought together young people from diverse backgrounds, including those actively involved in political parties. This inclusive approach is vital for cultivating a sense of unity and understanding among youth, irrespective of their political affiliations. By emphasizing clean campaigning, the initiative aims to shift the narrative from divisive tactics to constructive dialogue, fostering an environment where political discussions are centered around issues and solutions rather than personal attacks.
Participation from Political Party Youth:
One of the notable aspects of the Youth for Peace campaign is the active involvement of young members from various political parties. These participants, typically at the forefront of political activities, have been given the opportunity to enhance their skills in communication, conflict resolution, and community engagement. Through workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions, they are gaining valuable insights into how they can contribute positively to the political landscape while upholding the principles of peace.
Community Engagement:
Recognizing that peace is a collective effort, the campaign extends its reach beyond political party youth to include members of the broader community. This inclusive strategy is intended to break down barriers and foster collaboration between different segments of society. By involving community dwellers in the campaign, Youth Bridge and Actionaid aim to create a ripple effect, spreading the message of clean campaigning and peaceful coexistence to a wider audience.
Skills, Tools, and Knowledge for Peace:
The Youth for Peace campaign is not just symbolic; it is a practical endeavor to empower young people with the necessary tools for promoting peace. Participants are gaining skills in conflict resolution, effective communication, and community building. Workshops and training sessions cover topics such as ethical campaigning, respectful debate, and the importance of inclusivity in political processes. Armed with this knowledge, the youth involved in the campaign are poised to become advocates for a more harmonious and constructive political culture.
Conclusion:
As the Youth for Peace campaign continues to unfold, the impact of this collaborative effort between Youth Bridge and Actionaid is evident in the enthusiasm and commitment of the participating youth. By focusing on clean campaigning and providing young people with the skills and knowledge needed for promoting peace, the initiative is contributing to a positive transformation in the political landscape. In the weeks leading up to November 30, 2023, the campaign is poised to leave a lasting legacy by inspiring a generation of youth committed to fostering peace, unity, and collaboration in their communities and beyond.