Second International Conference on Youth Volunteering and Dialogue − 2017

The initiative is funded by the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Programme for a Culture of Peace and Dialogue and is rooted in the International Decade for the Rapprochement of Cultures (2013-2022) for which UNESCO has been designated lead agency by the United Nations General Assembly. The Decade addresses pressing global challenges through intercultural and interreligious dialogue, deepening understanding and cooperation among different peoples for peace. It also contributes to UNESCO’s operational strategy on youth 2014-2021, recognizing “youth as equal partners and actors for development and peace”, in line with the social, ethical and humanitarian engagement in the promotion of volunteering undertaken by the Government of Saudi Arabia.

The conference will also support the implementation of UNESCO’s landmark decision (Decision 197EX/46) which aims to enhance UNESCO’s capacity to assist Member States as they craft sharper strategies to prevent violent extremism, and of the UN Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism.