Youth, Peace & Security

Young people play a critical yet often underrecognized role in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and post-conflict recovery. While youth are frequently portrayed as sources of instability in fragile contexts, evidence increasingly shows that they can be powerful agents of peace when meaningfully included in political and security processes. This issue area examines the role of young people in mediation efforts, community resilience, and reconciliation initiatives, as well as their participation in formal peace processes and security institutions. It also explores the policy frameworks that support youth inclusion in peacebuilding—such as youth-led dialogue platforms, local peace committees, and international initiatives that recognize youth as partners in building sustainable peace. Through research and comparative analysis, the Centre seeks to highlight how youth engagement can contribute to more durable and inclusive approaches to peace and security.