Young peacebuilders from around the world have called for stronger support, long-term partnerships, and greater trust in youth leadership to help sustain peacebuilding efforts in fragile communities.
During the first-ever UN Peacebuilding Week, young leaders gathered at UN Headquarters to discuss the challenges facing youth-led peace initiatives in regions affected by conflict, polarization, and instability.
Participants from countries including Afghanistan, Ghana, Canada, and Côte d’Ivoire said financial support remains important, but funding alone is not enough to create lasting change. They emphasized that successful peacebuilding requires relationships, protection, skills development, and recognition of young people as equal partners.
Many young activists said limited access to funding and a lack of confidence in youth leadership continue to restrict their ability to expand their work. They also highlighted growing pressure on civil society and risks faced by young people who speak out for peace.
Youth leaders shared examples of how community-driven efforts can create positive change. In Ghana, young people have organized dialogue initiatives to bring different communities together and promote understanding. In Côte d’Ivoire, entrepreneurs noted that creating jobs and economic opportunities can contribute to stability by reducing the conditions that allow conflict to grow.
Young peacebuilders from Afghanistan described additional challenges, including shrinking civic spaces and difficulties accessing resources. They stressed that young people need greater opportunities to participate in decisions affecting their futures.
Participants also argued that funding systems should support the wider peacebuilding ecosystem, not only individual projects. Much of the work involved in creating trust, maintaining networks, learning, and supporting communities often receives little financial recognition but remains essential.
UN representatives highlighted the need for financing approaches that treat young people as genuine partners. They called for long-term investment strategies that match the reality that peacebuilding requires sustained commitment over many years.
The discussions reinforced the idea that youth are not only future leaders but active contributors to peace today. By combining financial support with trust, collaboration, and meaningful participation, communities can strengthen efforts to prevent conflict and build lasting peace.
