“Youth in politics & peacebuilding” project launched by UN Resident Coordinator.

With funding from the UN Peacebuilding Fund, United Nations Resident Coordinator (RC) Mr Babatunde Ahonsi today launched a close to 2 million US Dollar "Youth in politics and peacebuilding" project aiming to reach 11,604 young persons aged 18-25 in Bo, Port Loko, Western Urban and Rural areas.

Mr Ahonsi, who gave the keynote address at the ceremony held at the former premises of the Special Court for Sierra Leone, now the National Peace Museum, said CARITAS and CRS would implement the project and that it is particularly relevant to the context of Sierra Leone, as it addresses young people, female and male, politics, and peacebuilding.

He commended the CRS, CARITAS and the National Youth Commission for their partnership in the endeavour.

The RC emphasized that young people have a crucial role in the present and future of democracy in the country and that "engaging young people in democratic processes and allowing them to participate, safely and constructively, in politics are core aspects of any effort to sustain democracy”.

He also reiterated that investing in young political leaders' capacity, agency, and leadership will strengthen their ability to collaboratively lead peace efforts and use their skills to tackle other concerns that affect their lives, particularly in these challenging national and international times.

In his remarks, Mr Ahonsi also quoted the UN Security Council resolution 2250 on youth, peace, and security (YPS), which acknowledged young women and men's positive role in society and in sustaining peace and security.

He, therefore, welcomed the support that the project offers to develop the skills of young women and men in civic education and leadership to empower them as leaders in their communities and country.

Additionally, he referenced the 2022 Global Gender Gap Report, which revealed that persistent gender gaps exist in political participation, especially as women are significantly under-represented as voters, candidates, and electoral representatives worldwide, including in Sierra Leone.

According to Mr Ahonsi, "It is certainly, good news that the project has included the increase of young women's participation in governance and decision-making processes among its main goals."

 It will invest in advocacy activities against Gender-Based Violence and harmful customary practices that put young women at risk and undermine their socioeconomic development.

Mr Ahonsi disclosed that the UN subscribes to any effort to reduce violence and resolve disputes peacefully while promoting social inclusion, addressing the justice needs of people and reducing polarization and distrust.

He said the UN would continue to count on all Sierra Leoneans to work together in this crucial period for the country's democracy to prevent the recurrence of the unprecedented level of violence experienced on 10th August last year.

He reiterated the UN's commitment to supporting national institutions and the people of Sierra Leone in preventing violent conflicts, particularly ahead of the June elections, that could reverse the important gains of peace and democracy, which this country has made commendably over the past years.