Southern Africa: Formative years@SAIIA Hosts International Formative years Peace Roundtable in Johannesburg

On 16 July, Formative years@SAIIA convened a roundtable reflecting on South Africa’s transition to democracy and the role of formative years in peacebuilding.

On 16 July, Formative years@SAIIA convened a dynamic roundtable dialogue, bringing together 35 younger leaders from all over the globe to focal point on on South Africa’s tear from apartheid to democracy and its implications for formative years in peacebuilding.

The match, held on the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), welcomed 14 international formative years peace mediators and 20 contributors of SAIIA’s Formative years Policy Committee (YPC). Themed “Sharing of South Africa’s Struggle and Democratisation Process: The Role, Impact and Consequences for the Youth”, the session fostered a important change of strategies, experiences and systems for advancing peace and security.

The roundtable became a part of the Formative years Peace Mediators’ Mentoring Programme – a three hundred and sixty five days-lengthy initiative co-led by the Ministries of International Affairs of Finland and South Africa. The programme equips younger peacebuilders from 15 international locations – including South Africa, Finland, Colombia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, Qatar, South Sudan, Türkiye and Ukraine – with good tools in conflict resolution, peace negotiation and mediation.

Moderated by Ms Gaoreteleloe Maseko, national focal point of the SAIIA YPC Inclusive Societies working community, the dialogue explored the legacy of apartheid, the ongoing challenges facing South African formative years, and the international intersections of peace, justice and climate change.

“This roundtable should not just end here but be the start of a way forward to advance the Youth, Peace and Security Agenda,” acknowledged Ms Tyla Nxumalo, Programme Director of the day and Formative years Intern at SAIIA.

Distinguished guests included Ms Elizabeth Sidiropoulos, SAIIA Chief Govt; Ambassador Andre Groenewald (South Africa); Ambassador Jan Wahlberg (Finland); and Mr Graeme Simpson of Interpeace, Original York, all of whom shared invaluable remarks with the audience.

“The conversations were deeply enlightening,” acknowledged Jamela Baloyi, a third-three hundred and sixty five days LLB pupil and YPC member. “We explored the lasting impact of apartheid on South African youth, as well as the complex role climate change plays in fuelling conflict. Grateful to be part of a space where young voices are not only heard but valued in shaping a more peaceful and just future.”

This match marks a big step in strengthening formative years-led peacebuilding efforts and fostering international cohesion among the following generation of leaders.