Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 11/2013

Education for young people in fragile situations – the need for support

Birgitte Lind Petersen

August 2013

Danish Institute for International Studies

Abstract

Unemployment, lack of livelihood opportunities and immense vulnerability caused by the effects of war and unstable political transitions is the reality of many young people in fragile and conflict-affected countries. There is an urgent need to provide them with alternatives. Certain forms of training and education have shown great results: reduced violence, new hope and active contributions to their societies. Such impact requires considerable funding, and long-term commitment. This policy brief by Birgitte Lind Petersen recounts the most important findings from a recent DIIS report, commissioned by Danida as part of the Research and Communication (ReCom) programme on foreign aid. The brief highlights the documented impact and the most important lessons learned from three specific forms of education programmes for young people in fragile and conflict-affected countries.