Author(s):
Chayer Amelie <amelie@icbl.org> .
Tuesday 01 December 2009
As the Second Review Conference progresses in the plenary, the campaigners of tomorrow are being formed nearby. Indeed, 35 youth from 24 different countries are currently participating in Mines Action Canada’s Youth Leaders Forum (YLF).
Delegates are building their skills and knowledge as advocates for achieving universalization and implementation of the Mine Ban Treaty and Convention on Cluster Munitions. They are participating in skills building sessions on topics such as fundraising and grant management, media relations, lobbying and advocacy, and the essentials of mine action.
YLF participants are working diligently to produce a youth campaigning action plan to direct efforts over the next two years. It is a critical time as we head into the post-Second Review Conference period of the Mine Ban Treaty and the First Meeting of States Parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions. YLF participants will add momentum and contribute their newfound skills to international efforts.
Sarah Simoneau, Mines Action Canada
