Liberia has embarked on a significant journey towards ensuring lasting peace and security by empowering its youth through the launch of a comprehensive National Action Plan for Youth, Peace and Security (NAP-YPS). This $15.4 million initiative, a collaborative effort between the United Nations in Liberia and the Liberian government, signifies a pivotal moment in the nation’s commitment to fostering a peaceful and prosperous future. The NAP-YPS is not merely a document, but a roadmap that outlines strategic interventions to engage youth as active participants in peacebuilding processes, rather than viewing them as passive victims or perpetrators of violence. This plan aligns with global efforts recognizing the vital role of young people in shaping peaceful societies, stemming from the UN Security Council Resolution 2250 and subsequent resolutions. The plan’s launch signifies Liberia’s dedication to translating international commitments into tangible actions on the ground.
The NAP-YPS embodies a paradigm shift in approaching peace and security, recognizing the agency and potential of youth in driving positive change. It underscores the importance of providing young people with opportunities for meaningful participation in conflict prevention, resolution, and peacebuilding initiatives. By investing in youth development and empowerment, Liberia aims to break cycles of violence and build a more resilient and inclusive society. The plan focuses on protecting youth from various forms of vulnerability, including violence, exploitation, and substance abuse, while simultaneously empowering them to become agents of change within their communities. This two-pronged approach acknowledges the need to address both the immediate risks faced by young people and their long-term potential to contribute to sustainable peace.
The launch event, held at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, UN representatives, and youth advocates. Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah, Liberia’s Education Minister, representing Vice President Jeremiah K. Koung, highlighted the significance of the NAP-YPS, emphasizing Liberia’s alignment with the global agenda of recognizing youth as positive agents of change. Minister Jallah emphasized the plan’s alignment with President Joseph N. Boakai’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, particularly its focus on Human Capital, reinforcing the government’s commitment to investing in youth as a strategic priority for national development. This underscores the understanding that empowering youth is not merely a social imperative but a crucial investment in Liberia’s future prosperity.
Leonard Kamugisha, Officer-In-Charge of UNFPA Liberia, stressed that the NAP-YPS represents a shared responsibility, requiring the commitment and collaboration of all stakeholders. He emphasized the importance of translating the plan’s vision into concrete actions, including protecting youth from vulnerabilities and preventing conflicts. Kamugisha’s remarks highlighted the holistic nature of the plan, encompassing not only conflict prevention but also rehabilitation and reintegration of those affected by substance abuse. This comprehensive approach recognizes the interconnectedness of various social challenges and the need for integrated solutions to address them effectively.
J. Wellington Barchue, Assistant Minister for Development Planning, Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, underscored the collective responsibility for the plan’s successful implementation. He emphasized the need for inter-ministerial collaboration, engagement with civil society organizations, and the active participation of young Liberians themselves. Barchue pledged the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning’s commitment to securing the necessary financial and technical resources required to translate the plan’s vision into a tangible reality. This commitment highlights the importance of resource mobilization and allocation to ensure the plan’s effective implementation.
The launch of the NAP-YPS represents a significant milestone in Liberia’s journey towards sustainable peace and development. By recognizing and investing in the potential of its youth, Liberia is laying the foundation for a more secure, prosperous, and inclusive future. The plan’s comprehensive approach, encompassing protection, prevention, and empowerment, reflects a deep understanding of the complex challenges and opportunities facing young people in post-conflict settings. The commitment of government officials, UN agencies, and civil society organizations to collaborative implementation is crucial for the plan’s success. Ultimately, the NAP-YPS signifies a collective investment in the future of Liberia, recognizing that empowering youth is the key to unlocking the nation’s full potential and building a lasting peace.
