11/06/2026
At the 35th Session of the CCPCJ at the Vienna International Centre, IAYSP Europe and Middle East (IAYSP EUME), supported by UPF and WFWP, organized the side event “Empowering Youth through Education for Crime Prevention and Anti-Corruption.”
Moderated by Ejona Icka, PhD, (UN Coordinator of IAYSP EUME, professor at UBT), the discussion brought together experts and youth leaders to explore how education can strengthen integrity, accountability, and active citizenship among young people.
Key insights from the speakers included:
• Viktorija Nesterovaite (UNODC) emphasized that young people are innovative partners in change and highlighted anti-corruption education as a powerful tool for building inclusive and resilient societies.
• Amra Azizi (YSP North Macedonia) presented IAYSP EUME’s work in youth empowerment through the Peace Designer Training and, stressing that education fosters critical thinking, cooperation, responsibility, and social cohesion.
• Hussein Adeleye (ANEEJ, Nigeria) addressed the structural challenges facing youth and underscored the importance of preventive approaches focused on education, skills development, and community engagement showcasing through the projects of ANEEJ.
• Prof. Dr. Li Jing Zhu (World Psychiatric Association) highlighted the urgent need to prioritize mental health, particularly among athletes, as an essential aspect of well-being and performance.
• Maha Dabirian (student) shared a vision for strengthening intercultural understanding through dialogue, cultural exchange, and immersive learning experiences through her project “Forum d’Honneur”.
The event concluded with a shared recognition that investing in youth education, leadership, and cross-sector collaboration is essential for crime prevention, anti-corruption efforts, and the advancement of sustainable peace.
YouthLeadership SustainablePeace
