Armed with resilience and determination, they are greatest asset Lebanon can have, and they will undoubtedly play an important role in building a peaceful environment for generations to come. However, to be able to promote change, these young people need avenues to express their wishes and their grievances. In this issue of the UNDP “Peace Building in Lebanon” supplement, funded by the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, we listened to them and brought together a colorful mix of topics moving and inspiring youth in Lebanon.
This issue of the supplement you have in hands does not just deal with Lebanese youth, but also with Syrian and Palestinian youth residing in Lebanon. The articles here explore values, challenges, fears, aspirations and success stories, and show many common grounds between youth from different nationalities. The need to invest in youth, to include and empower them, to work and listen to them, to recognize and value their efforts, are needed today more than ever. By doing this, Lebanese youth can take their full part in building a stronger and a more inclusive Lebanon. With the right support, young people can build peace, foster reconciliation and achieve democratic governance!