Yemen - PAX

Yemen’s latest civil war erupted in late 2014, and escalated further with the Saudi-led military intervention in 2015. This led to the collapse of state institutions, and Yemen became divided among multiple de facto authorities. This created a security and judicial vacuum, forcing the population to rely on tribal customs and social figures to maintain some modicum of order.

In the north, the Houti movement continues to dominate, maintaining control over the capital of Sanaa with civic space tightly restricted. The UN have reported heightened struggles to maintain its humanitarian access in these areas. Inflation and lack of income opportunities remain pressing issues, particularly for youth who face high unemployment and limited resources.

Overall, Yemen today is defined by sharp contrasts: fragile stability versus persistent governance challenges, north–south disparities, and structural hardship. These dynamics continue to shape the civic space available to young people, influencing both their opportunities and the obstacles they face. Currently, more than 19.5 million people—nearly 60% of the population—are experiencing food insecurity, with widespread malnutrition among children.

Resonate!

In Yemen we currently work with Resonate!. An important focus of Resonate! is community building. For this, they use for example so called ‘Resonate! Talks’. These are safe spaces, in which influencers or peacebuilders including youth have platforms in different parts of Yemen under one roof to discuss, exchange experiences and advocate.