By IANS,
New Delhi: Youths belonging to conflict areas from across South Asia took part in a workshop to help them enhance their capacity for nonviolent, democratic engagement in the communities they live.
Organised by Women in Security, Conflict Management and Peace (WISCOMP), the 9th annual workshop titled Gender, Democracy and Peace-building in South Asia was held in the capital Dec 1-4.
“Since its inception in 2001, we have brought together over 400 young women and men with the purpose of broadening the network of “future influentials” and enhancing their capacity for nonviolent, democratic engagement in the communities they live and work in,” said Meenakshi Gopinath, honorary director, WISCOMP.
This year, the group was from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka representing diverse socioeconomic, cultural and political backgrounds and professions like advocacy, education, media, business etc.
The workshop also included refugee voices, this year represented by Tibetan, Burmese and Afghan youths based in India.
“These workshops create a space and context for young people to rise above the baggage of preceding generations and build a future based on trust and mutual respect,” added Gopinath.