Peace Advocacy Training Hub (PATH) news from our sessions
Over the past month, 20 young peacebuilders from Libya, Yemen, Syria, and Iraq have completed the first four sessions of the Peace Advocacy Training Hub (PATH), designed to strengthen youth leadership, gender equality, and inclusive peacebuilding in the MENA region.
Each week, participants engaged with experts and one another on key dimensions of peace and reform, exploring not only theory, but also the personal and social realities that shape peacebuilding in their communities.
The journey began with Karma Ekmekji, who guided the group through the foundations of peacebuilding, conflict sensitivity, and women’s leadership. Participants reflected on how inclusive leadership and community participation are essential to sustainable peace.
In the second session, Dr. Maya Alrahabi led an exploration of democratic reform, constitution building, and policy advocacy. Through a feminist lens, participants discussed how inclusive governance and gender-responsive legislation can advance justice and equality.
The third session, facilitated by Ruwaida Al-Araby, focused on digital advocacy and media literacy. Participants practiced using fact-checking tools and examined how misinformation and gendered narratives can undermine peace efforts — while also learning how digital spaces can be harnessed for positive change.
In the fourth session, Sarah Al Sheikh guided a deep dive into negotiation, mediation, dialogue, and strategic communication. Participants explored practical tools such as the Conflict Tree and Conflict Wheel, and reflected on feminist and ethical approaches to dialogue and mediation.
These topics lie at the heart of sustainable peace and reform in the MENA region. Empowering young women and men with knowledge, skills, and critical awareness builds local resilience and advances the goals of the UN Women, Peace and Security Agenda.
PATH’s interactive approach centers the experiences and insights of participants, creating a collaborative learning space that bridges knowledge with lived realities.
We are deeply grateful for the openness, commitment, and creativity the participants have brought to these first four sessions, and we look forward to continuing this journey together in the weeks ahead.