The Global Taskforce for Youth Combatants (GTY) is pleased to announce a new publication: “Choose Peace, Not Revenge“ by Nor Ali Hassan.
When Nor was 17 years old, his brother was killed by a government soldier. The grief and anger he felt led him to pick up weapons and join the Islamic extremist organization Al-Shabaab.
Shortly after joining, Nor was arrested for his association with the group and sentenced to 15 years in prison. This led him to reflect on his choices and he realized that violence only deepens suffering. Through rehabilitation programs by Accept International, he educated himself and began teaching others about peace and responsibility. He now works with GTY to amplify the voices of former combatants.
“Through my experience, I have come to deeply believe that former youth combatants deserve recognition, encouragement and support. I have seen the potential they hold, the power to play a crucial role in society and to spark hope in places where hope has been lost.“
This is an excerpt from the new publication “Choose Peace, Not Revenge“. Nor shares his story of becoming an agent of peace and proves that change arises not through arms but through dialogue and deep self-reflection.
Read the full article here: https://gt4y.org/publication/choose-peace-not-revenge/
