April 17, 2024 – New York, UN Headquarters
On April 17, 2024, Sarra Messaoudi, representing Justice Call and the MENA Coalition on Youth, Peace, and Security (MCYPS), delivered a powerful statement at the United Nations Security Council ministerial-level debate on “The Role of Young Persons in Addressing Security Challenges in the Mediterranean.” Speaking on behalf of Justice Call and MENA Coalition on Youth, Peace, and Security, Sarra emphasized the urgent need for youth inclusion, meaningful participation, and cross-sector collaboration to address regional security issues.
She highlighted the challenges young people in the Mediterranean face, such as restrictions on civic space, barriers to political participation, climate-sensitive security risks, and limited funding for peacebuilding. Sarra urged the Council to act on these concerns, stressing the importance of intergenerational partnerships, practical support, and accountability in implementing youth, peace, and security (YPS) resolutions.
Reflecting on the struggles in Gaza, Sarra called for immediate action: “We need joint efforts, not siloed approaches,” she said. “Young people are ready to build and sustain a just peace movement because, for us, the revolution didn’t end; it continues in many forms.”
Her address underscored the importance of solidarity and the need for concrete actions to empower young peacebuilders across the Mediterranean.
Read her full statement here
UN Photo/Evan Schneider
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