Even though young women and men often make up a large part of the population in countries affected by conflict, they are rarely allowed to participate in peacebuilding processes or granted influence over decisions that affect their lives. Opinions about young people are often limited and simplified: they can be considered victims without abilities, which is typically the case for young women, or violent troublemakers, which is typically the case for young men. Although most young people never take part in or become affected by violent actions, these stereotypes continue to exist.

The purpose of the youth, peace and security agenda is to give young people a greater voice in peacebuilding and conflict management and work against norms and power structures related to age.

The participation and influence of young people in peace and reconciliation processes is a matter of rights, legitimacy, and sustainability. Protecting the rights of young women and men and enabling them to participate meaningfully in society overall is essential for societies’ resilience against conflict, for human security, and sustainable peace.

What does the FBA do?

• Training and advice
  FBA offers training and advice on youth, peace and security through handbooks, educational resources, and mentorships, mainly for counsellors and focal points within the UN or other professionals working with youth, peace and security.  

• Research 
  FBA conducts and supports international research on youth, peace and security.
  
  
• Secondments
  FBA seconds personnel working with youth, peace and security to international peace operations that Sweden contributes to, led by the EU, UN and OSCE. Click here to see a map of where our personnel is currently deployed.
  
  
• Our partner countries
  Within the framework of Sweden’s international development aid, FBA carries out projects concerning youth, peace and security. Click here to read more about the countries where we work.
  
  
• Support to civil society
  FBA grants yearly funds to Swedish civil society organizations working to promote dialogue and debate and to spread knowledge about peace and security related issues, for example issues concerning youth, peace and security.