ブックタイトル佐藤栄作　受賞論文集

概要

佐藤栄作　受賞論文集

第25回優秀賞together a range of young people to discuss and formulate plans to enhance theparticipation of young people in the peace process and in rebuilding society. Theproject demonstrated the way that the energies of young people can be directed intothe kind of political, social and economic regeneration so necessary in post conflictcommunities. The UNDP coordinators heard again and again from youth about theirfrustrations that they were never consulted and that political leaders rarely heardtheir concerns or addressed their needs. As the young people themselves recognized,failing to include them in the rebuilding process would see a continuation of insecurityand the perpetuation of problems resulting from the desperation of people unableto find employment or other outlets for their creativity. The fact that conflict had“denied most of them the opportunity to develop viable skills for employment”(Ankomah 2005: 43) was seen by the participants as directly related to the presentproblems of criminality and other forms of social breakdown. Accordingly, the forummembers worked to develop four cross border strategies for the region, which wouldallow for projects in the areas of“communication and networking, capacity buildingand enterprise development”. With initial capital provided by UNDP, the projects inagriculture, fisheries, services and housing were structured so as to be financiallysustainable once established (Ankomah 2005: 40-43). While such projects are certainlysmall in contrast to the massive problems facing Mano River communities, theyare in line with models of human development espoused by the UN, and are drivenprimarily by local energies. They are self sustaining, and are focused on strengtheninghuman security from the bottom up. Moreover, they foster a confidence in politicalorganisation and offer a way for young people to develop the skills necessary fordemocratic leadership.709