Young people often face a complex mix of economic uncertainty, social division, limited employment opportunities, and the long-term effects of conflict.
Since 2022, YMCA Finland and its partners have been bridging this gap through a multi-country programme that connects humanitarian response with long-term development by combining vocational training, entrepreneurship support, psychosocial care, civic engagement, and peacebuilding initiatives, the programme equips young people with the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to rebuild their futures and strengthen their communities.
30,000+ young people participated in peace, governance, and civic engagement activities, while 20,000+ has gained vocational and entrepreneurship skills with 60% of graduates progressing into employment or further education and 24 youth peacemaker groups established across partner countries, demonstrating how youth-led solutions can drive resilience, peace, and lasting social change.