engagement

As the youth population continues to grow in countries throughout the developing world, I have been thinking about what role this burgeoning group will play in conflict and post-conflict environments. It is an oft-cited truism that peace must begin with the youth because they are more open-minded than the older generation, have tremendous energy and enthusiasm, and represent the future of their countries. Yet their very open-mindedness makes them susceptible to hatred and violence, as events like the clashes following the 2008 elections in Kenya illustrated all too vividly.

The past few weeks have seen an upsurge of events at IREX examining conflict from the perspective of youth engagement, conflict prevention, and women's involvement.

Belarusian Muskie fellow Yahor Luhauskikh stands out as a student leader in the University of Southern Maine’s Muskie School of Public Service.  Luhauskikh, a 2010 fellow studying public health, was recently chosen to represent his program in the Graduate Student Government.  As an active participant in student government, Luhauskikh is following in the tradition of Senator Muskie, who