• Budget: € 1,281,188
• Location: Lebanon (Tripoli), Jordan
• Date of project: December 2016 – December 2019
• Implementing Partner: International Association for Human Values UK (IAHV), CrossArts

Children and youth are the hope and the key for the creation of a peaceful society. Yet, many children from underprivileged backgrounds or escaping war-torn countries, experience deep traumas that can lead to violent and harmful behaviours towards themselves and the society around them.

This project aims at providing training and opportunities of peace building to children and youth, with the objective of increasing social cohesion in the communities, across generations, religions and social backgrounds.

Many young people expressed that their participation in the project changed their perception of their lives and the world around them, and kept them away from reactive patterns, anxiety and frustration. Exemplary in having overcome their personal traumas, obstacles and disappointments, these youth from violence-affected backgrounds have changed their behaviour from violence, bullying, aggression and depression into acceptance, social action, understanding and positivity.

In the current times of uncertainty and chaos, the youth were equipped with new healing, confidence, skills and vision that prepared them to write and implement their own peacebuilding projects in their schools and communities, on issues that are close to their heart and lives. Carrying their messages through self-made theatre plays, puppet shows, flash mobs, songs, dances, movies and online campaigns, they are creating waves of peace and hope throughout Tripoli.