In the midst of ongoing conflicts and instability in the OSCE regions, it is essential to recognise and empower the voices of young women who are actively engaged in peace building and conflict resolution efforts. As part of the OSCE Networking Platform for Women Leaders, including Peace builders and Mediators, an inspiring initiative was launched in Vienna on March 8th, the "Young Women for Peace Initiative." Among the participants was AYAP’s Founder Heela Yoon, who brought forth crucial recommendations for improving the educational situation in Afghanistan and requested scholarships for Afghan women and girls in Austria, Vienna.
The Power of Young Women in Peacebuilding:
Heela Yoon, a prominent young woman peace-builder from Afghanistan, demonstrated the power of youth and women in driving positive change within their communities. Her presence at the OSCE launch event on International Women's Day highlighted the critical role of young women in peace building and conflict resolution. Despite the challenges her country faces, Heela's determination to create a more inclusive and peaceful society serves as an inspiration to all.
Key Recommendations for Afghanistan's Educational Situation:
During the launch event, Heela Yoon eloquently presented key recommendations aimed at improving the educational situation in Afghanistan. Recognizing that education plays a vital role in empowering individuals and building sustainable peace, Heela emphasized the urgency of providing educational opportunities, especially for women and girls in her war-torn nation.
Scholarships for Afghan Women and Girls:
Heela Yoon urged the OSCE and the international community to support educational scholarships for Afghan women and girls. The lack of access to quality education has long been a barrier to women's empowerment and development in Afghanistan and the current Taliban ban on girls education. By offering scholarships, young Afghan women will be given the chance to pursue higher education in Austria, Vienna, and other supportive nations. This opportunity can transform their lives and equip them with the knowledge and skills to contribute to peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts back home.
Focus on Vocational Training and Skill Development:
In addition to traditional academic scholarships, Heela proposed the establishment of vocational training and skill development programs. These initiatives will enable Afghan women to gain practical expertise in various fields, fostering economic independence and providing alternative pathways for success. Vocational training equips women with the means to actively participate in their country's rebuilding process, thus contributing to lasting peace in Afghanistan.
Safe Learning Spaces:
To ensure the success of educational initiatives for Afghan women and girls, Heela stressed the importance of creating safe learning spaces. Due to the prevailing security concerns in Afghanistan, providing secure environments for education is essential. By investing in safe learning spaces, the international community can demonstrate its commitment to supporting the aspirations of Afghan women and girls for a brighter future.
Heela Yoon's participation in the OSCE's "Young Women for Peace Initiative" showcased the invaluable contributions of Afghan youth in peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts. Her advocacy for educational opportunities and scholarships for Afghan women and girls in Austria, Vienna, is a significant step toward fostering sustainable peace and empowering women to become leaders in their communities and beyond. By heeding Heela's recommendations and investing in the education of young Afghan women, the international community can pave the way for a more inclusive and peaceful Afghanistan. It is through such collective efforts that we can truly make progress towards the goals set forth by UNSCR 1325 and UNSCR 2250, ensuring that the perspectives of women and youth are fully considered in peace and mediation processes worldwide.