Engaging Youth to Build Safer Communities

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God."
-Matthew, 5:9

While I may not agree with the trinitarian aspects of this verse from the Gospel of Matthew, I certainly most agree with the notion that those who strive for peace between people and mankind in general exhibit godly actions in character. The older generation that is in power is certainly at odds with the rest of the world youth, who just want to live in a peaceful environment. But this is in itself a big topic. I believe that the youth among us are the ones who have the future in their hands... who will shape the future of this world and divert most if not all catastrophe, especially avoidable scenarios.

The title link leads to an initiative by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, called the Post-Conflict Restruction (or PCR) project. Here is the description offered by the website:

Post-conflict environments are inherently insecure. Although cease-fires and peace agreements formally signal the end of large-scale fighting, periodic violence usually continues, and communities suffer in the absence of reliable and effective security forces and rule of law. These environments tend also to be home to large populations of youth; some perpetuate violence, others contribute to rebuilding, and still others are marginalized. Yet the youth group in its entirety represents enormous untapped potential that could help in the reconstruction process, particularly with regard to improving security. Unfortunately, youth are typically viewed as part of the problem and not considered as possible positive actors.

The CSIS Post-Conflict Reconstruction (PCR) Project posits that youth can play a constructive role in building safer communities. The process of working with youth communities to increase safety includes reducing one potential driver of conflict—youth—by providing opportunities for those who might otherwise engage in violence and crime, as well as engaging youth in specific programs to help improve the safety of communities. From taking part in foot and bicycle patrols, neighborhood watches, and early warning systems to providing crime reduction education, prevention strategies, and escort services, youth have the capacity to contribute to safety and security when official mechanisms are absent, ineffective, or in need of extra support. This report recommends that these opportunities should be included in the spectrum of activities in which post-conflict youth could engage. In addition to reviewing methodologies and specific programs, the report highlights core principles that have led to long-term success with youth in helping build safer communities.

This is a good program. I strongly encourage people to take a look at this and spread it around. Initiatives like this might prove useful for future generations, in order to lower crime, promote a more peaceful, tolerant society, and create unity through diversity. I believe that such projects are useful especially when tensions falter in hard-hit areas, where violence, etc. are commonplace.

And I strongly advise you spread the word...