Escaping victimhood: children, youth, and post-conflict peacebuilding

Abstract

This publication draws on experiences from post-conflict environments in different parts of the world. The authors examine the proactive roles of girls and boys in promoting security for themselves and their families. The publication focuses on children's suffering and their specific vulnerabilities during and after a war. It also looks into the international legal frameworks created to protect and empower children and youth in post-conflict environments, and gives examples of initiatives to help young people escape victimhood and voicelessness. As the young post-war generation will become the next leaders, parents and teachers, ensuring children and youth's active role in post-conflict peacebuilding today could be among the most effective means of building sustainable peace tomorrow