Statement attributable to the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth Ahmad Alhendawi

It is with great admiration that I welcome today’s signing in Havana of the landmark bilateral ceasefire agreement between the Colombian government and the FARC-EP. This historic agreement is an important step forward for Colombia and its people.

I would like to convey my deepest congratulations to the thousands of youth peacebuilders who have been involved in supporting these peace negotiations and who have made this day possible. Their perseverance and their commitment have demonstrated that when youth are involved in peacebuilding efforts, peace can be achieved.

On this day, I recall my visit to Neiva, Colombia in August 2013, where I was deeply inspired by the commitment of thousands of young people to finally put an end to more than half a century of conflict. Today’s agreement demonstrates the importance of continuous engagement with young people in peacebuilding efforts.

 

[Photo: A member of a neighbourhood collective focusing on youth inclusion in Ibagué, Colombia, takes part in the #RespiraPaz (“Breathe Peace”) campaign | Credit: Andrés Arbeláez/PNUD Colombia]

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