UNESCO. General Conference; 36th; 36 C/5: volume 1: Draft ...

status of women worldwide; (b) ensure that there is equal access and full participation of women in
power structures; and (c) that women are fully involved in peace-building and reconciliation efforts. This
must entail using a cultural lens so as to develop effective policy measures to address gender inequality
across different cultures. It also means addressing gender-bias in educational and learning processes and
in the media. Another obstacle encountered is the problem of violence against women, which is one of
the most widespread violations of human rights and which is a particularly despicable occurrence during
times of conflict. Women should be empowered to be agents of change and decision-makers, whether
in their homes or in the work place, whether accessing their legal rights to protection from violence,
contributing to post-conflict reconstruction or working on climate change adaptation or mitigation.
07020 Another major obstacle to building a culture of peace relates to the violent radicalization of youth and the
emergence of youth extremism over the course of the Decade. Many countries have a large segment of
unemployed youth, lacking education, skills, and prospects. This situation is exacerbated by significant
shifts in social variables, such as the breakdown of family structures, migration to overcrowded urban
areas, exclusion from opportunities to achieve life goals and a sense of marginalization. The result is that
many young people are left mired in tension and too often conflict – that breeds despair, frustration and
fear, aggravated by exposure to violence, whether in daily life, through the media or at school. Youth
who are caught in these circumstances are vulnerable to manipulation, exploitation and radicalization
that may descend into violence by groups and individuals pursuing an intolerant and extreme agenda.
07021 Another lesson of the Decade’s activities is that growing young populations in many countries throughout
the world present opportunities and challenges. The energy, creativity and idealism of youth can enrich
cultures, drive economic growth, build civil society and promote understanding. Youth today, perhaps
even more so than previous generations, are at a crossroads and need to be engaged through concrete
activities.
Towards an intersectoral and interdisciplinary Programme of Action
for a Culture of Peace and Non-violence
07022 The new draft Programme of Action for a Culture of Peace and Non-violence proposed in this
document builds on the knowledge gained and the best practices identified in the implementation
of the International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for the Children of the World
(2001-2010) and initiatives organized in connection with the dialogue among civilizations, including
the Alliance of Civilizations, and having regard to past cooperation and exchanges with United Nations
specialized agencies, particularly UNICEF. It also draws upon the provisions of 185 EX/PX/DR.7 on
the culture of peace, and the discussions on this item in the PX Commission and during the thematic
debate of the Plenary and the Drafting Group for the 36 C/5 during the 185th session of the Executive
Board.
07023 The main objectives of the draft Programme of Action are:
– To update and breathe new life into the concept and practice of a culture of peace and non-violence;
– To raise awareness of the need for humanity to change the way in which people relate to others;
– To promote a global, social and cultural movement to promote a culture of peace and non-violence.
07024 The main beneficiaries of such action shall be women, children and youth as well as the most vulnerable
segments of society.
07025 Priority will be rendered to African Member States in the areas of peace-building, culture of peace and
non-violence, reconciliation, dialogue and regional integration, and in post-conflict and post-disaster
situations.
201 36 C/5 – Intersectoral platforms