March 7, 2025 — We are delighted to welcome a new member Ms. Ruth Besong joining the Global Taskforce for Youth Combatants.
Ruth is a Program Officer for Africa at the Global Network of Women Peacebuilders (GNWP). Through her extensive work with multicultural institutions, she specializes in Peace and Security, Gender Violence Prevention and Response in Africa, Conflict-sensitive project management, the Integration of Gender in Small Arms and Light Weapons Control in Cameroon, and Gender-based Violent Extremism.
“The world is evolving and the ideology of young people always seen as instigators of violence is gradually eroding. The ratification of YPS, WPS and Agenda 2063 (The Africa we want) by member states both globally and regionally, have changed the narratives and perceptions of young people, especially in the global South from violent extremists to change-makers and peacebuilders who are conceiving innovative ideas within war-torn countries, restoring global peace.
I believe in the "second chance philosophy" giving another opportunity to young people especially young women who have decided to drop down their arms. I believe in their reintegration into society through socio-economic and income-generating activities to facilitate their reinsertion. We can make this happen!
As we advocate for global peace, let us also consider supporting ex-combatants, and victims of war to build back better. As we strive to deconstruct violence from in minds, let us place skills and other opportunities in their hands for their personal growth and development — Ruth.”
For new updates on our task force members, please visit the MEMBERS section on our website.
