CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: In a world too often divided by conflict, the International Youth Day conference in Iraq emerged as a strong reminder that the seeds of peace can still be sown, especially when the youth lead the way. The two-day gathering, graced by His Excellency Ahmed Al-Mubarqa, Minister of Youth and Sport, brought together a vibrant mix of voices, each adding to a message of hope and resilience.
Focus areas included peace, security, and climate change, with The Art of Living, represented by Prasana Prabhu, Chairman of Social Projects, bringing valuable contributions to the table. His presentation on the organisation’s global initiatives in peacebuilding, environmental restoration, water sustainability, renewable energy, waste management and general social welfare brought a unique and essential perspective to the discussions.
Youth: Building Peace and Mitigating Climate Change
The conference kicked off with a compelling session on “The Role of Youth in Promoting Peace and Security in Local Communities”. It was impossible not to feel a surge of optimism as young Iraqis shared their stories of how they’ve become pillars of peace in their communities. These are young people who have lived through tumultuous times and yet, instead of succumbing to despair, they’ve found ways to foster understanding and security around them.
Dr. Abdullah Al-Kamil, Director of the Reproductive Health Programme, delivered a sobering session on how climate change is affecting reproductive health in Iraq – a stark reminder that environmental issues are deeply intertwined with social challenges. Strategies and digital tools driving their impact were examined, demonstrating how technology – often criticised for deepening divides – can actually be a powerful force for unity and peace. The energy in the room was palpable during the “Discussion Panel: The Role of Youth in Enhancing Environmental Awareness through Green Technology”. Young innovators demonstrated how they’re leveraging technology not only to mitigate climate impacts but also to transform community perspectives and interactions with the environment.