Discourse bats for preventing conflicts
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 06 2024: Arguing that conflicts, wars and violence occurring worldwide stem from the absence of a universally agreed-upon definition of 'peace', Taragi Cheisu secretary (Peace Programme) Dr Deben Bachaspatimayum has stressed the need for abandoning violence and embracing new conflict resolution means such as peace building skills, communication abilities, dialogue, negotiation and meditation.

Speaking during the inaugural function of a 4-day workshop'on 'Youth Leadership Development in Conflict Transformation and Peace Building' jointly organised by Manipur University, Youth for Peace International (New Delhi) and Taragi Cheisu at the Open Air Theatre in Manipur University premises on Monday, Dr Deben recounted that in 2016; the UN Security Council passed a resolution emphasising the importance of involving youths in peace and security processes.

Subsequently, greater attention was directed towards youths in addressing internal armed conflicts, communal and ethnic unrest.

They were provided with education on acquiring knowledge and skills for peacebuilding.

He further said that we cannot pursue peace while simultaneously blandishing a dagger.

Therefore, the workshop has been conducted with the objective to equip both the present and future generations with the skills and knowledge necessary to resolve conflicts peacefully, without resorting to violence.

He also mentioned that Youth for Peace International is an organisation established by young people and headquartered in Delhi, with international connections.

The four-day workshop will feature seasoned speakers who have made presentations at various international forums including Youth for Peace International co-founder and CEO Saumya Aggarwal, Mannat Dhillon and Juanita Calderon from Colombia along with Alexa Taboada as facilitators.

The workshop also aims to discuss the prevailing crisis in the state which has been lingering on for the last one year, and to cultivate a new generation of professional peace builders, he said.

The inaugural function was also attended by MU School of Life Sciences dean Prof GKN Chhetry, Organising Committee chairman Dr RK Nimai who is also the co-chairman of Taragi , Taragi Cheishu chairman advocate Khaidem Mani, vice chairman P Sonamani and Youth for Peace International co- founder & CEO Saumya Aggarwal as presidium member.

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