Stakeholder Meeting in Lebanon: Youth for Peace in the Mediterranean Sea (YxP)-

The Youth for Peace in the Mediterranean Sea project continued its journey in 2025 with a stakeholder meeting held in Bakaata – Chouf, Lebanon. The session brought together four stakeholders from education, municipalities, NGOs, media, and the arts, along with five youth workers from the Youth Development Organization (YDO). The purpose of the meeting was simple but essential: strengthen collaboration, present the project’s tools, and build a shared vision for peace across the Mediterranean.

Introducing the Vision Behind YxP

The meeting opened with an introduction to YDO’s mission and current youth programmes. After this, the team presented the goals of the Youth for Peace in the Mediterranean project. The focus was on empowering young people, promoting dialogue, and creating inclusive spaces where youth from different backgrounds can learn from one another.

The stakeholders were introduced to the project’s deliverables including the videos and the official dossier and to the responsibilities carried out by YDO in Lebanon.

Key Exchanges and Reactions

Each participant brought an insight shaped by their work and community.

• Mr. Yehia Fatayre (Municipality of Jdeideh Bakaata) underlined that the project strengthens acceptance among young people and helps build the foundations of a more peaceful future.

• Ms. Noura Abed Baki (English Academy School) expressed strong interest in using the project’s videos and tools with her students. She sees them as an opportunity to inspire creativity and encourage youth to engage in similar peace-focused activities.

• Mr. Jean Younis (Municipality of Deir El Qamar) admired the creativity shown by the young participants and confirmed his willingness to collaborate with YDO on future peace activities. He asked for a copy of the dossier to share within municipal programmes.

• Ms. Amal Takieddine (social worker and founder of Walk for Life) renewed her commitment to supporting YDO. She plans to spread the videos and tools inside her community to raise awareness about peace and positive social action.

All stakeholders also confirmed their participation in promoting and attending the Multiplier Event on 11 October.

Activities During the Meeting

The group watched a video showcasing YDO’s work with youth, explored the dossier and tools, and discussed how each stakeholder can support the project. The focus was on collaboration, awareness-raising, and building long-term engagement. The meeting helped strengthen connections across different sectors and opened new doors for future partnerships.

Results of the Session

The outcome was clearly positive. The meeting created stronger links between YDO and local actors, introduced them to the YxP methodology, and encouraged them to use the project’s materials in their institutions and communities. It also helped prepare the ground for the upcoming multiplier event and ensured broader visibility for the project’s message.