UNESCO co-organized a conference with the Kingdom of Bahrain entitled, “Youth@the Crossroads: A Future without Violent Radicalization.” Over 100 specialists and young people from all of the world’s regions met in Manama, Bahrain, from June 15-17, 2008, to look at ways of dissuading youth from engaging in violent, radical behavior. The meeting showcased community-based projects and best practices that constructively engage youth and foster conditions that provide young people with positive options for their own future.
The United States was pleased to send a delegation headed by Kerri Briggs, Assistant Secretary for Basic and Secondary Education, U.S. Department of Education. Also on the delegation were Ambassador Louise Oliver, Permanent Representative of the United States to UNESCO, Susanna Connaughton, Executive Director, U.S. National Commission for UNESCO, Jared Cohen, Policy Planning Staff, U.S. Department of State, Stephen Engelken, Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Mission to UNESCO, James O'Neill, Principal Associate Deputy Secretary, Department of Health and Human Services, Stephanie Robson, Education Officer, U.S. Department of Education, and Alexander Zemek, Deputy Executive Director, U.S. National Commission for UNESCO.
The conference brought together Non-Governmental Organizations from around the world and drew up many key conclusions and findings. Among them was the affirmation that the exploitation of youth by violent extremist groups, has become of utmost strategic relevance in today’s world in every region.
The findings also stated that education helps improve critical thinking skills and therefore plays a crucial role in combating extremism. The lack of curricular and extra-curricular opportunities, which permit self-expression, the building of self-esteem, competence in employable skill sets, and alternative outlets, make youth more vulnerable to those violent extremists who seek to recruit and manipulate them. Conversely, hope, positive opportunities, and a sense of community help combat the allure of violent extremism.
In conclusion, the findings encouraged UNESCO to disseminate information about best practice initiatives and projects, promote knowledge-sharing at all levels, induce the development of partnerships, work with other relevant United Nations organizations and consider reviewing progress achieved at a future meeting in a suitable manner drawing on all stakeholders.
In light of the importance of building employable skills sets and fostering self-esteem, Assistant Secretary for Basic and Secondary Education at U.S. Department of Education, Kerri Briggs, announced at the event a $50,000 Access Plus program, in which the U.S. Embassy in Manama will extend their partnership with the American Cultural and Educational Center in Manama, the American Chamber of Commerce, the Bahraini Ministry of Education, to provide internships in local Bahraini companies as well as language training for up to 50 Bahraini youth.
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