The Impact of War on Youth Activism in Yemen

Recommendations focus on: • Enhancing cooperation between disparate youth platforms and communication between youth abroad and in Yemen; • Increasing capacity building on skills related to political and civil society work for the youth organizations on the ground in Yemen; and • Advocating more youth participation in platforms and institutions involved in peacebuilding work in Yemen. [...] In the face of this youth activism, the government and political parties found themselves forced to include youth leaders[5] in the National Dialogue Conference of 2013-14, which sought to promote national reconciliation and chart a new course for political life in Yemen.[6] The worsening political crisis in 2014 and the beginning of a new war in 2015 marked a turning point for youth activism. [...] The focus group discussion, conducted via Zoom, included representatives from the following groups involved in youth initiatives and peacebuilding activities: the Youth Pact for Peace and Security; Granddaughters of Belqees; the Sameh Initiative; the Youth Mediation Support Team, the Aden Youth Consultations; the My Contribution is Development Network, and the Youth Leadership Network. [...] Violations of the right to freedom of expression and political participation are visible in the widespread repression of young journalists and activists, the shuttering of public places in Sana’a, and efforts to prevent youth mobilization. [...] The Impact of War on Youth Activism in Yemen The Youth Pact for Peace and Security, an initiative bringing together 30 young men and women by UN Women and the UNPF, is one of these groups.[42] Despite the inclusion of youth inside and outside Yemen, coordination among them faces many challenges that hinder meetings and workshops.