ECOSOC Youth Forum 2023
Briefing to Civil Society Organizations on the New Agenda for Peace
In a resounding display of determination and resilience, Heela Yoon, the founder of Afghan Youth Ambassador for Peace, took the stage as a key speaker at the ECOSOC Youth Forum 2023 in New York. Her presence echoed the aspirations of countless Afghan youths seeking hope amidst the challenges posed by the current geopolitical landscape. Heela Yoon's impassioned address during the ECOSOC Youth Forum 2023 Spotlight Session on Peace and Prosperity resonated deeply, particularly when she highlighted the urgent need to provide educational opportunities to Afghan girls amid the prevailing Taliban ban.
A Glimpse into the Afghan Humanitarian and Educational Crisis
The situation in Afghanistan under the new Taliban regime has escalated into a severe humanitarian and educational crisis. The restrictive policies imposed on education, especially for girls, have cast a shadow over the future of Afghanistan's youth. This crisis is compounded by the displacement of many Afghans, both internally and externally, along with the challenges faced by marginalized groups, such as young refugees and those with disabilities. Against this backdrop, raising the Afghan situation on international platforms like the United Nations is imperative. Only through global collaboration and discourse can the world work towards alleviating the suffering of Afghan youth and ensuring their right to education, security, and prosperity.
Key Recommendations for Youth, Peace, and Prosperity
During the ECOSOC Youth Forum 2023 Spotlight Session on Peace and Prosperity, young leaders from around the world put forth a set of recommendations that underscore the importance of youth inclusion, education, and peace-building. These recommendations are a clarion call to decision-makers and governments to prioritize the well-being and empowerment of young people:
Inclusive Participation in Peace Processes: The youth leaders strongly advocate for meaningful engagement of young people in peace processes, both formal and informal. Acknowledging the diverse backgrounds and identities of youth, their inclusion is vital for ensuring the legitimacy, sustainability, and relevance of peace initiatives and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals.
Promotion of Inclusive and Peace-Promoting Education: The leaders call for inclusive and peace-promoting education for all, particularly marginalized youth. The curriculum should integrate conflict resolution and mediation strategies from an early age, promoting non-violent communication both offline and online.
Investment in Education during Emergencies: The recommendations emphasize investing in education during emergency settings, ensuring safe and high-quality learning environments for youth in crisis. Safe spaces for learning, gender- and youth-sensitive protection mechanisms, and access to mental health and psychosocial support are essential, especially for marginalized youth.
Support for Youth-Led Initiatives: Decision-makers are urged to sustain youth-led initiatives that promote peace and security. Adequate, flexible, and accessible financing should be provided to these efforts, complemented by political commitments, innovative approaches, and intergenerational partnerships.
Strengthening Partnerships with Youth-Led Organizations: The leaders encourage decision-makers to foster partnerships with youth-led organizations and enhance collaboration with youth-led civil society groups. These partnerships amplify youth voices and perspectives, ensuring an inclusive approach where no one is left behind.
Empowering Youth Engagement and Foresight: Decision-makers are challenged to explore creative and participatory ways to engage young people. Strategic foresight should be enhanced to jointly identify and manage new risks. This empowers youth to contribute insights, imagination, and creativity to building peaceful societies and reducing violence, aligning with the Secretary-General’s Our Common Agenda.
In the heart of these recommendations lies a collective plea for a more inclusive, equitable, and peaceful world where young people are not just beneficiaries, but active contributors to the betterment of societies. Heela Yoon's presence at the ECOSOC 2023 Youth Forum serves as an embodiment of this spirit, igniting hope for a brighter future for Afghanistan and the global community at large. As the international community rallies around these recommendations, it is a testament to the power of collaboration and youth-led initiatives in shaping a world that values peace, education, and human rights above all else.