Youth for Peace: UNESCO Intercultural Leadership Programme 2025 for Emerging Leaders in Cape Verde
Cape Verde, an archipelago known for its rich culture and diversity, faces unique challenges in the global context. Promoting peace and intercultural understanding is crucial for sustainable development and social cohesion. In this sense, UNESCO's Intercultural Leadership Programme "Youth for Peace" is an unmissable opportunity for young Cape Verdean leaders who want to make a difference.
What is the Youth for Peace Programme?
UNESCO's Youth for Peace Programme is a global initiative that aims to empower young leaders around the world with the skills and knowledge needed to promote peace, intercultural dialogue and conflict resolution. The 2025 edition focuses on emerging leaders, offering a platform for the development of innovative projects and the creation of collaborative networks.
Main Programme Objectives
- Strengthen young people's intercultural leadership skills.
- Promoting dialogue and understanding between different cultures.
- Support the development of projects that address social challenges and promote peace.
- To create a global network of young leaders committed to building a more just and peaceful world.
Why is this programme important for Cape Verde?
Cape Verde, with its history of migration and cultural diversity, can benefit enormously from the Youth for Peace Programme. The participation of young Cape Verdeans in this programme can:
- Strengthen the capacity to respond to social challenges such as inequality and discrimination.
- Promoting the appreciation of cultural diversity and respect for human rights.
- Inspire the creation of innovative projects that address the specific needs of Cape Verdean communities.
- Contribute to building a more inclusive and peaceful society.
Examples of Potential Impact in Cape Verde
Imagine a young leader from Cape Verde taking part in the programme and developing a project to promote intercultural education in schools. This project could include:
- Workshops on the history and culture of different ethnic groups in Cape Verde.
- Activities that promote dialogue and understanding between students from different backgrounds.
- The creation of teaching materials that value cultural diversity.
Another example could be a project that aims to combat hate speech online by training young people to identify and report discriminatory content and to promote messages of tolerance and respect.
How to Apply for the "Youth for Peace" Programme 2025
The application process for the "Youth for Peace" Programme 2025 usually involves:
- Fill in an online application form.
- Presentation of a motivation letter demonstrating your commitment to promoting peace and intercultural dialogue.
- Description of a project you would like to develop to address a social challenge in your community.
- Presentation of letters of recommendation from people who can attest to your leadership qualities and commitment to the cause.
Eligibility Criteria
Although the specific criteria may vary from year to year, generally applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Be a citizen of a UNESCO member country (Cape Verde is included).
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to promoting peace and intercultural dialogue.
- Have experience in leadership and community work.
- Have a good command of English (the programme's working language).
Success Stories: Impact of the Programme in Other Countries
In Mozambique, for example, a programme participant developed a project to promote reconciliation between communities affected by armed conflict. The project involved creating spaces for dialogue and organising cultural activities that celebrated diversity and promoted mutual understanding. This project had a significant impact on reducing violence and building a culture of peace in the region.
In Nigeria, another participant used the skills acquired on the programme to create an online platform that connects young people from different ethnic and religious groups. The platform offers educational resources, volunteering opportunities and spaces for dialogue, promoting understanding and collaboration between young people from different backgrounds.
Conclusion: An Investment in Cape Verde's Future
UNESCO's Intercultural Leadership Programme "Youth for Peace" 2025 represents a unique opportunity for young Cape Verdean leaders to develop their skills, expand their networks and contribute to building a more just and peaceful future. By investing in the development of these young people, Cape Verde will be investing in its own future. We encourage all young Cape Verdean leaders to seriously consider applying for this transformative programme.
Don't miss your chance to make a difference! Apply for the Youth for Peace 2025 Programme and join a global network of leaders committed to building a better world.
For more information and to apply, visit: https://www.unesco.org/en/youth-peace
Deadline for applications: 22 June 2025.
