United Nations (TDI): Ambassador Usman Jadoon, Pakistan’s Acting Permanent Representative to the United Nations, has emphasized the crucial role of youth leadership in reshaping global diplomacy and conflict resolution, urging for greater inclusion of young voices in decision-making processes.
Speaking at a panel discussion on “Youth Leadership and Global Diplomacy: A Collaborative Approach to Conflict Resolution,” Ambassador Jadoon highlighted the pressing need for innovative and inclusive strategies to address multifaceted global conflicts, with youth leadership at the core of such efforts.
“With the world’s youth constituting its largest demographic segment, their energy, perspectives, and innovations are critical to addressing the root causes of conflicts and crafting sustainable solutions,” he said, noting that while the UN has recognized youth potential through various resolutions, more tangible efforts are required to integrate their voices meaningfully.
The ambassador drew attention to two of the world’s longest-standing disputes—Palestine and Jammu and Kashmir—describing them as emblematic of the failures of traditional conflict resolution approaches.
“These protracted conflicts have left millions of young people under foreign occupation, facing repression and denial of basic rights,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Ambassador Jadoon praised the resilience of youth in Kashmir and Palestine, who continue to advocate for their rights through peaceful means, leveraging education, technology, and creative expression to highlight their struggles globally.
He outlined several key points to advance youth-driven conflict resolution:
Youth-led Initiatives
The envoy said that community-based dialogues, cultural exchanges, and technological innovations spearheaded by young leaders have shown success in bridging divides. Scaling such efforts globally can reshape international relations.
Collaboration
He said that partnerships between youth leaders, governments, and international organizations are essential. Programs like the UN Youth Strategy offer models, but targeted initiatives are needed to remove barriers to youth participation.
Education and Exchange
The ambassador said that promoting global exchange programs to foster cross-cultural understanding is vital for peacebuilding and nurturing a diverse diplomatic framework.
Addressing Barriers
He said that political repression, economic hardship, and lack of platforms hinder youth participation. Protecting youth activists’ rights and ensuring their freedom of expression is critical.
Adherence to International Law
The envoy further said that sustainable conflict resolution must respect international law and equity, including implementing UN resolutions affirming the right to self-determination for the people of Palestine and Kashmir.
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Ambassador Jadoon reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to supporting youth leadership, particularly in conflict zones like Kashmir and Palestine, and called on the international community to amplify young voices.
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“Inclusive diplomacy led by youth can transform global conflict resolution into an effective and sustainable endeavor,” he said, urging collective efforts to create a peaceful and equitable future where young people are empowered to shape the world.
