When I arrived in New York, I wasn’t just landing in a city full of energy and diversity. I was stepping into a space where the voices and experiences of those fighting for peace intertwined, seeking to transform the global reality. Participating in the Dialogue between Civil Society and the UN in December 2024 was a revealing experience that allowed me to understand the crucial role of youth in peace and security.
Today, when we think about peace and security, we often picture major diplomatic summits or meetings of world leaders. However, peace is built from the ground up from communities and, especially, from young people. In a global context of increasing conflicts and crises, youth are not just the future but also the present of peace.
During the dialogue, it became clear that the role of young people in conflict prevention is crucial, but real impact requires concrete support. Recognizing their importance is not enough; there must be genuine political commitments and funding for their initiatives. The discussion focused on the urgency of implementing inclusive national strategies that acknowledge young people’s role in peacebuilding and involve the private sector in financing these efforts.
Without resources and political will, good intentions remain empty promises. One of the most significant points of the dialogue was the recognition of civil society as a fundamental actor in international processes. Many local organizations, led by young people, not only bring innovative solutions but should also play a more active role in global decision-making. The UN, as a key space, must continue to be a point of convergence, but civil society must also remain vigilant and demand that states fulfill their commitments, especially those made in the Pact for the Future.
The event brought together representatives from diverse regions who shared their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for peace. From Europe and Scandinavia to Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, the voices were diverse, but all agreed on the need for inclusive processes. The importance of integrating women, youth, and local communities in peacebuilding was highlighted, particularly in regions affected by armed conflict and lack of
funding.
Girl Up Leader Karen Bailón with Ms. Awa Dabo, Director and Deputy Head at PBSO/UNDPPA
In Latin America, for example, discussions focused on redefining peace not just as the absence of conflict but as a process that includes diverse perspectives, with youth playing a crucial role.
The most inspiring aspect of the dialogue was the reaffirmation of youth’s essential role in the peace agenda. In my conversation with young leaders and representatives from organizations such as YPS Champions in Jordan, we discussed the importance of intergenerational mentorship and youth empowerment. Young people are proving that they are not waiting for their turn to act—they are leading the way in communities and on the international stage.
Recognizing diversity and inclusion is key to achieving sustainable peace.
The dialogue in New York left me with deep reflections on multilateralism and the need for innovation in funding peace initiatives. It became clear that bureaucracies must be overcome with more horizontal mechanisms and that resources must be more inclusive and accessible to local organizations. Only then can global decisions translate into tangible improvements for affected communities.
My experience in New York was a call to action. Peace is not built through high-level summits or abstract agreements; it is built in communities, through constant dialogue and collaboration across generations. I invite all young leaders and civil society organizations to join this global conversation. Peace is a journey built with every commitment, every action, and the collective strength of those who believe in a more just and sustainable world.
What do you think about the challenges and opportunities in peacebuilding? How can we strengthen the relationship between civil society and international institutions?
Together, we can be the force that transforms the world.
