The theme of International Youth Day 2017 is ‘Youth Building Peace’.
Since the adoption of Security Council Resolution 2250 in 2015, there is growing recognition that as agents of change, young people are critical actors in conflict prevention and sustaining peace.
International Youth Day 2017 is dedicated to celebrating young people’s contributions to conflict prevention and transformation as well as inclusion, social justice and sustainable peace.
The current generation of youth is the largest in history. Unfortunately young people often comprise the majority in countries marked by armed conflict or unrest. Therefore considering the needs and aspirations of youth in matters of peace and security is an imperative.
The Brigidine Sisters give thanks for the presence of the young people in Kildare Ministry Schools and in various other settings such as parishes, spirituality centres, universities and groups committed to peace, ecological and social justice, where we meet, interact with and are inspired by young people.
We recognize that whenever youth are excluded from political, economic and social spheres and processes, it can be a risk factor for violence and violent forms of conflict. Therefore, we will continue to collaborate with others in identifying and addressing the social exclusion of young people knowing it is a precondition for sustaining peace.