Former programme executive for Youth Engagement Joy Eva Bohol, who conceptualized the first edition of the toolkit, noted that “War is the worst enemy of human rights, as articulated by UN Human Rights chief Volker Türk. The devastating impact of war and conflict disproportionately affects children and young people.” According to the UNHCR, over 42% of the nearly 110 million forcibly displaced people worldwide are children under 18 years old, and approximately 60% are under the age of 30. Through the WCC Ecumenical International Youth Day toolkit, young people, using their own voices and perspectives, highlight the realities and impacts of war and conflict in various parts of the world. They call for churches to take a proactive and strong stand against war, conflict, and violence, inspired by Jesus' message of “abundant life for all” (John 10:10). “Churches must recognize, affirm and mobilize that while young people are often the victims of these atrocities, they are also powerful instruments of hope and agents of change,” added Bohol. Through this toolkit, the WCC Commission on Young People in the Ecumenical Movement will draw attention to the situation of young people living in the realities of wars, conflicts, and injustice; whether in civil or cross-border wars. “We are looking ahead to gathering a diverse array of participants, and drawing them closer together with a sense of spiritual solidarity, so that we may all be intentional as we bring the message of peace on August 12,” said Bolado. “The toolkit relaunch and the 2024 International Ecumenical Youth Day activity realise the affirmation of the WCC 11th Assembly to foreground the agency of young people in ecumenical work. Peace-building is one of the key priorities in the 2023-2030 strategic period. We thank God for the prophetic witness of young people on an urgent global concern,” reflected Rev. Dr Kuzipa Nalwamba, Programme Director for Unity, Mission, and Ecumenical Formation. Download the International Youth Day 2024 Toolkit Register for the Ecumenical International Youth Day online event Young people in the ecumenical movement |
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