UNMIK Supports Youth-Led Initiatives for Peace, Inclusion and Sustainable Development
Young leaders from communities across Kosovo (UNSCR 1244) and the wider Western Balkans came together in mid-June for the 8th United Nations Youth Assembly, organized with the support of the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) as part of the United Nations' ongoing commitment to advancing the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agenda.
Held under the theme "Youth in the Field," the Assembly provided a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation, bringing together young people from diverse backgrounds to address some of the most pressing challenges facing their communities.
Participants engaged in discussions on a broad range of issues, including:
- Rural and urban development disparities
- Youth participation in governance and decision-making
- Economic opportunities and entrepreneurship
- Social inclusion and intercultural dialogue
- Mental health and well-being
- The role of young leaders in promoting peace and resilience
Opening the Assembly, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UNMIK, Peter Due, emphasized the essential role of young people in building peaceful and inclusive societies.
"Young people are not merely beneficiaries of policies and programmes; they are partners, innovators, peacebuilders, entrepreneurs and agents of change," he stated.
His message highlighted the importance of empowering youth as active contributors to sustainable development, democratic participation, and long-term regional stability.
One of the Assembly's most significant outcomes was the selection of five youth-led cross-community initiatives that will receive small grant funding from UNMIK. These projects aim to transform innovative ideas into practical actions that strengthen cooperation between communities and promote social cohesion across Kosovo and the Western Balkans.
The Youth Assembly reflects the United Nations' continued commitment to implementing UN Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security, recognizing young people as key partners in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and sustainable development.
As challenges facing today's youth continue to evolve, initiatives such as the United Nations Youth Assembly demonstrate that meaningful youth engagement remains one of the strongest foundations for creating more inclusive, resilient, and peaceful societies.
Source: United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK)