Somalia has endured decades of protracted conflict, clan-based divisions, and fragile governance systems that have deeply impacted social cohesion. Communities continue to face challenges of mistrust, marginalisation, and cycles of violence that hinder national reconciliation and development. In this context, peacebuilding and social cohesion are not just programmatic areas, but foundational pillars for Somalia’s recovery and progress.
Horn Concern works at the grassroots level to facilitate dialogue, mediation, and community reconciliation, bringing together diverse groups including elders, women, youth, religious leaders, and minority communities to address grievances, strengthen trust, and promote peaceful coexistence. Our initiatives emphasise inclusivity, ensuring that traditionally marginalised voices are heard in peace processes and decision-making forums.
A central focus of our work is youth peacebuilding. The demographic reality of Somalia, with a population that is over 70% under the age of 30, makes youth peacebuilding not just a focus, but a fundamental necessity for any sustainable progress.
Horn Concern’s youth peacebuilding efforts likely focus on a number of key areas, reflecting the broader strategies of organisations working in this space:
- Empowering Youth as Agents of Change: This involves a shift in perspective, moving away from viewing youth as a problem to be managed and instead seeing them as a solution. Horn Concern would likely run programs that provide young people with the skills and platforms to lead peace-building initiatives in their own communities.
- Capacity Building and Skills Training: This is a crucial component. Beyond traditional education, it includes training in conflict resolution, mediation, and civic leadership. Equipping youth with these skills allows them to address disputes peacefully, whether they are over land, water, or other resources.
- Creating Safe and Inclusive Spaces: Youth peacebuilding requires spaces where young people can come together to discuss their concerns, share ideas, and build trust across different clans, genders, and social groups. Horn Concern would likely facilitate workshops, dialogue forums, and youth clubs to foster social cohesion.
- Promoting Economic Empowerment: Unemployment is a major driver of insecurity. Horn Concern’s work on youth peacebuilding would likely be linked to economic development, providing vocational training and entrepreneurial support. When young people have a source of income, they have a greater stake in a peaceful and stable society.
- Advocacy for Political Inclusion: True peace-building involves a role in governance. Horn Concern would likely advocate for greater youth representation in political decision-making processes, ensuring that the concerns and aspirations of the majority of the population are heard and acted upon. This helps to build confidence in democratic institutions and provides a legitimate path to influence.
