Achieving peace and resilience – empowering youth and fostering collaboration in Pakistan

The "Workshop on Strengthening Youth in Extremism Prevention," organised under the NACTA Youth Empowerment Network, took place on 28-30 August in Islamabad with the active collaboration of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the financial support of the European Union (EU). This event brought together representatives from 30 civil society organisations (CSOs), think tanks, academia, and international experts, all committed to preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE) across Pakistan.

Recognizing that the youth of the country are the most effective force in peace and counter-violence campaigns, this workshop was designed to engage them actively in the fight against extremism. The event's primary objectives included updating the existing guidebook on sports-oriented solutions to violent extremism, and strengthening the Youth Empowerment Network's efforts through collaborative activities involving CSOs, academia, and think tanks.

The opening ceremony set the stage with key speakers emphasizing the critical role of youth in fostering a peaceful and resilient society. The representative from the Service for Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI) of the European Commission, Regional Team – Asia/Pacific Ms. Francesca Arato highlighted the importance of engaging youth in P/CVE initiatives, underscoring the EU's strong commitment to supporting such efforts. She emphasized that the energy, creativity, and determination of young people are vital in the fight against violent extremism. Ms. Arato reaffirmed the EU's dedication to empowering youth to take on leadership roles in promoting tolerance and peace.

Syed Arslan, Advisor at UNODC, stressed the importance of amplifying the voices of youth in P/CVE efforts, noting that young people are not just beneficiaries but active contributors and leaders in the movement against violent extremism. 

Mr. Muhammad Tahir Rai, National Coordinator of NACTA, highlighted that early intervention and community engagement are key to preventing the spread of extremist ideologies. He expressed appreciation for the strong collaboration between NACTA, EU and UNODC, which has been instrumental in enhancing Pakistan's capacity to address the challenges of violent extremism. 

Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in dynamic discussions and activities aimed at reinforcing the Youth Empowerment Network’s initiatives in preventing and countering violent extremism. 

With a budget of EUR 6 million financed by the EU and technical support from UNODC, the project “Countering and Preventing Terrorism in Pakistan” builds advanced technical capacities in the investigation, prosecution and adjudication of terrorist crimes, reforms and integrates victim support services and finances over 30 CSO micro-projects on P/CVE.