The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) is inviting young leaders from the South Caucasus and Central Asia to apply for the 9th edition of its Young Peacebuilders programme. Designed for young people aged 18 to 25, this peace education initiative equips emerging leaders with practical skills, peer networks, and sustained mentorship to advance peace and social cohesion, strengthen intercultural and interfaith dialogue, and contribute to the prevention of violent extremism in their communities.
A Comprehensive Peacebuilding Learning Journey
Through a competitive selection process, twenty participants will be selected to take part in a structured, experience-based learning journey that combines training, exchange, and real-world implementation.
Selected participants will engage in a comprehensive peacebuilding learning experience, comprising:
- an online learning phase with facilitated educational modules;
- an intensive one-week in-person workshop;
- the design and implementation of community-level “peace projects”, enabling participants to apply newly acquired skills as force multipliers; and culminating with
- a results-sharing symposium, where participants will present their experience, lessons learned, and recommendations to a broad audience of stakeholders, including practitioners and representatives of multilateral entities, governments, media and civil society.
This blended learning approach reflects UNAOC’s commitment to supporting young people as partners in shaping more peaceful and cohesive societies, helping bridge dialogue between youth and decision-makers, and increasing the visibility of youth-led peace initiatives.
Peace4Culture Global Call
Under the “Peace4Culture Global Call” framework, the programme develops a network of young peacebuilders equipped to challenge stereotypes, prejudice, and polarization. By addressing the drivers of violent extremism, the initiative fosters inclusive, peaceful societies and aims to involve these young leaders into governmental peace processes. This project is central to UNAOC’s youth programming, which enhances mutual respect and intercultural understanding.
Launched in 2022 by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan in partnership with UNAOC, the “Peace4Culture Global Call” celebrates cultural diversity and the role of sustainable peace in reviving cultural spirit. Grounded in universal values of compassion and respect, the initiative strengthens the resilience of peaceful societies and international peace systems in response to contemporary global challenges.
A proven platform with a growing global network
Since its inception, the UNAOC Young Peacebuilders programme has empowered 155 young leaders from 58 countries, fostering a global network of changemakers committed to building more peaceful and inclusive societies.
More details on the programme and eligibility criteria are available here. To apply, click here. The deadline to apply is 31 July.