Become part of a network of young change-makers who are promoting peaceful and inclusive societies within their communities.
The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) invites youth-led organizations from eligible countries to apply for the 11th edition of the Youth Solidarity Fund (YSF). YSF supports projects that promote peace and social inclusion by enhancing mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration across borders, cultures, faiths, and beliefs.
YSF provides seed funding of up to USD 25,000 to implement impactful youth-led projects that advance intercultural and interfaith dialogue, and are aligned with the mandate and mission of UNAOC. To qualify, projects must be entirely developed and managed by young people for the benefit of society, especially youth.
“Young people stand ready to mobilize action to make their communities more peaceful and socially inclusive,” said Under-Secretary-General Miguel Ángel Moratinos, High Representative for UNAOC. “With the Youth Solidarity Fund, UNAOC supports them in their efforts to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.”
Established in 2008, YSF was launched in response to the calls of young civil society leaders advocating for sustainable funding mechanisms to support their efforts on the ground. The Fund is tailored specifically to youth-led organizations and has, to date, invested a total of $2.59 million to support 80 youth-led projects in 43 countries, positively impacting more than 3.4 million beneficiaries worldwide.
Now in its eleventh edition, YSF continues its comprehensive support to youth-led organizations, with a particular focus on the role of young people in promoting cultural and religious pluralism, peace and mutual respect, preventing violent extremism when and as conducive to terrorism, addressing the increased stigma and discrimination, fostering respect for different religions and cultures, as well as tackling the root causes of polarization and identity-based conflicts. Through this support, UNAOC helps implement key global policy frameworks by fostering meaningful youth engagement in building peaceful and inclusive societies.
Applications are now open. Eligible organizations are encouraged to submit their applications by 15 August. Details on the programme, application guidelines, eligibility, and selection criteria are available on the UNAOC website: https://unaoc.org/youthsolidarityfund/.