Our Story
The Missing Peace project was born out of a shared recognition of the challenges faced by young people living in post-conflict and cold-conflict regions across Europe.
Vision
In many of these areas, youth are not only witnesses to the lingering effects of past tensions but are also pivotal agents capable of driving reconciliation and preventing radicalization. Yet, too often, they are caught between being overlooked or stereotyped—viewed as either potential perpetrators or passive victims. Despite their potential to act as powerful agents of reform, the tools, resources, and structured support needed to empower them have been largely missing.
Motivated by this gap, a coalition of peace and reconciliation centers, youth-focused NGOs, migrant-led initiatives, and human rights educators came together to create The Missing Peace. This project bridges the divide between youth work and peacebuilding by fostering collaboration, sharing expertise, and equipping youth workers with the skills and methodologies needed to meaningfully engage young people in reconciliation efforts. Its name was inspired by the “Youth, Peace, and Security” Progress Study, which highlights the need to break stereotypes and enable young people to actively participate as decision-makers in peace processes.
Mission
Our journey began with a focus on creating innovative tools, structured training programs, and a platform for mutual learning. The Missing Peace connects diverse stakeholders, including those working in reconciliation, non-formal education, and youth empowerment, to build a foundation of practical and impactful solutions.
Support
This initiative has been enriched by the involvement of partners like the Jena Center for Reconciliation Studies, the Willy Brandt School of Public Policy, and various NGOs across Europe. These partnerships allow us to delve deeper into research and practical applications, ensuring that the project is both comprehensive and impactful.
Over 27 months of structured cooperation, we embarked on a mission to:
Develop a Methodological Framework and e-Mapping
To understand the role of youth organizations in reconciliation processes.
Engage in long-term capacity-building programs
For young people and youth workers, including youth exchanges, training courses, and study visits.
Connect with diverse stakeholders
To disseminate findings and tools, supported by digital platforms and toolkits.
Establish a Transferable Youth Peace and Reconciliation Program
For young people, youth workers, and organizations.
What do we stand for?
01.
Reconciliation
Young people, especially young women, hold unique and invaluable perspectives on social issues and reconciliation.
02.
Inclusion
By empowering them and the youth workers who support them, we aim to foster inclusive societies where peace and reconciliation are not just ideals but lived realities.
03.
Collaboration
Our story is a testament to what can happen when organizations and individuals come together with a shared vision for change.
04.
Empowerment
By unlocking the potential of youth as agents of peace and sustainability, we are shaping a future where young voices are heard, valued, and empowered to lead the way toward a more peaceful and just world.
