Promoting non-violence in Northeast Syria

Ahimsa Centre for non-violence and human rights promotes a culture of non-violence among young women and men in Northeast Syria. Through trainings, dialogue and community initiatives, young activists learn to use non-violent action as a powerful tool for transformative change. This initiative challenges the normalization of violence in Syria.

A new regional collaboration has been launched that enables youth from conflict-affected communities in Palestine, Yemen, Syria, and Lebanon to promote inclusive, peaceful societies. The program combines grassroots approaches with regional collaboration to combat sectarianism, strengthen social cohesion, and advance policy reforms aligned with UN Resolution 2250. Over two years, seven youth organizations will support 210 young leaders to implement tailored community initiatives. Central to the project is the creation of safe physical and digital spaces, connecting youth across fragmented geographies.

One of these initiatives implemented in Northeast Syria by Ahimsa Centre for non-violence and human rights seeks to promote non-violence among the young generation. Through dedicated training sessions, young women and men from the cities of Hassake, Raqqa, and Deirezzor are learning about the principles of non-violence and the transformative power of non-violent action to bring about change. By working closely together to develop community-based initiatives, they contribute to fostering understanding, dialogue and peace within their local environments.


Peace begins with non-violence


What is the problem?

Prolonged conflicts, political instability, and deep sectarian divisions have led to significant challenges in Palestine, Yemen, Syria, and Lebanon. Youth in these countries face limited opportunities for agency and meaningful participation. In Palestine, occupation and rights violations restrict youth expression and cultural preservation, while in Syria, ongoing violence and displacement hinder leadership development. Yemen’s social and economic crises make youth vulnerable to exploitation and radicalization, and Lebanon’s sectarian tensions leave many young people marginalized. These conditions have created a critical need for safe spaces and platforms where youth can engage, collaborate, and lead efforts for social cohesion, policy change, and cultural preservation.

What we think

As PAX, we recognize the immense potential of youth in conflict-affected regions to be agents of change and peace. We believe that empowering young people through education, capacity building, and access to safe spaces is crucial for fostering inclusive societies. By providing these youth with the tools to challenge sectarianism, advocate for policy reforms, and preserve cultural heritage, we aim to create lasting peace and resilience in Palestine, Yemen, Syria, and Lebanon. We understand the complex dynamics of these regions and are committed to working alongside local grassroots organizations to support and amplify the voices of youth, ensuring their active involvement in shaping the future of their communities.

What we do

Ahimsa Centre promotes a culture of non-violence among Syrian youth living in Northeast Syria. During training workshops, young women and men are familiarized with principles of non-violence and the power and practical tools of non-violent action to inspire change. Safe spaces created through these sessions allow participants from Hassake, Raqqa and Deirezzor, to reflect on the root causes of violence, engage in open dialogue and find common understanding. Through this initiative, youth collaborate to design and implement non-violent actions that promote dialogue, strengthen social cohesion and lead their communities towards transformative change and a more peaceful and just future.  

This programme is part of a larger initiative that supports seven grassroots organizations across Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, and Yemen, building their capacity to engage 210 youth leaders who are trained and mentored to implement initiatives that promote peace, inclusivity, and social cohesion. We create safe spaces – both physical and digital – where youth can engage in dialogue, share ideas, and develop strategies to overcome sectarianism and violence. These spaces also facilitate regional collaboration and provide a platform for youth to advocate for policy reforms aligned with UN Resolution 2250. Additionally, a joint governance structure ensures cross-national knowledge exchange and collective action, with youth directly involved in decision-making processes.

Our goal

Through our regional project, we aim to empower youth in Palestine, Yemen, Syria, and Lebanon to become active leaders in fostering peaceful and inclusive societies. By equipping young people with the skills to advocate for social cohesion, combat sectarianism, and preserve their cultural heritage, we are working to lay the foundation for sustainable peace and regional solidarity.

Partners

Contact

Benoîte Martin, Project Lead Syria, martin@paxforpeace.nl