In celebration of International Youth Day, the Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon (UNSCOL) hosted an inspiring meet-and-greet event on August 13 at its premises, bringing together young Lebanese eager for change.

The event featured an engaging dialogue between UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert and young women and men who are members of UNDP-supported programmes: the Advocacy Force for Development and Anti-Corruption in Lebanon (Afdal) and the Youth Leadership Programme (YLP). The young leaders shared their experiences, achievements and aspirations on shaping Lebanon’s future.

A highlight of the event was the screening of the UNSCOL-produced virtual reality documentary “Dreaming of Lebanon,” which offered an immersive experience into the lives, dreams, and challenges faced by young Lebanese. The Special Coordinator encouraged the youth women and men to take the lead in advocating for building a better future, saying, “A wake-up call must come from the young people as well,” urging them to guide the international community toward actionable solutions.

The discussions also included an exchange of views on the role young women and men can play in changing the tide against corrupt practices, the opportunities for youth in different sectors, including both in cities and rural areas, innovative ways of promoting the SDGs, the impact of different crises on young people and the implementation of international resolutions, including UNSCR 1701.

The event highlighted the unwavering spirit of Lebanon’s youth, who, even in the face of the country’s immense challenges, remain steadfast in their pursuit of a brighter future. With resilience and determination, these young leaders are championing a vision for a more transparent and inclusive Lebanon, driven by hope and the desire to create lasting change.