Since 2015, conflict in the Diffa region of Niger has intensified, exacerbated by instability and by Boko Haram’s violent attacks. As the level of violence grows, Diffa risks spiraling into an even deeper crisis.
In this context, our 24-month project Jeunesse, Paix et Sécurité (Youth, Peace, and Security), funded by the German Cooperation, supports the Government of Niger in developing inclusive, bottom-up, and participatory engagement with communities, including young people, to maintain peace.
As part of this program, we are strengthening the efficiency of the existing local peace architecture in the region. Our training and joint activities between young people, local government, and security forces are fostering mutual trust and laying the foundations for meaningful collaboration.
This project also enables youth leaders to actively contribute to local-level conflict prevention efforts. Young leaders in Diffa have enormous potential to bring communities together across dividing lines and take young people’s perspectives to elected and traditional community leaders.
Our program trains these young leaders in leadership, conflict management, community mobilization, and advocacy, and empowers 100 youth to design and implement local peacebuilding projects. These youth-led activities feature the participation of local authorities and security forces and increase young people’s engagement in peacebuilding.
Additionally, as unemployment and instability increase the vulnerability of youth to violent extremism, our program supports young people in developing job opportunities that contribute to their social integration and engagement with the community.
Finally, we train journalists and producers in the region and support local radio stations to produce reliable and conflict-sensitive information while amplifying local voices, especially those of youth and women.
