Youth Breaking Cycles of Marginalisation, Resource Competition and Violence in Yemen

A new initiative of the National Democratic Institute (NDI) aimed at addressing violence caused by competition over resources and marginalisation has been launched in Yemen.

In Yemen, tribal conflict is a backdrop affecting the country's economic development, governance and national stability. Disputes over land claims and competition for resources and government services often lead to violence and cycles of revenge killings that can extend over a decade, hindering the work of government and international development agencies, and isolating citizens from the state.

To help deal with this problem, 40 young men and women, all under the age of 30, came together in July to form the country's first cross-tribal youth council. Located in Al Juba district in the conflict plagued Mareb governorate, the council is part of an 18-month program led by NDI to engage youth in the governorates of Mareb and Shabwa to resolve conflict and build relationships between young people and community leaders to address issues that contribute to violence. The council will advocate for youth to municipal and tribal leaders, learn and teach conflict prevention and problem solving skills to students, and serve as mediators among youth in their communities.

For more information on the initiative please visit the NDI website.