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ECOWAS – West African youth: a direct dialogue has been established

Young people are now a key driver of socio-economic development, peace, security and regional integration. Recognising this strategic role, ECOWAS has initiated a direct dialogue with young people in West Africa as part of its Vision 2050 for sustainable peace and shared prosperity. From 1 to 3 July in Saly, a regional conference brought together young people from several member states. They welcomed this initiative, which provided them with a platform for expression and collective reflection on the major challenges they face. Among the topics discussed were: entrepreneurship, health, education, migration, vocational training, and many others. For the participants, these challenges constitute obstacles to their fulfilment and represent potential risks to peace and stability in the region. They expressed their desire to contribute actively to building a united, resilient and forward-looking West Africa. The young people also showed great interest in the regional mechanisms that need to be put in place to better harness their potential and make them key players in regional development, both now and in the future.