UN Special Representative for Libya, Martin Kobler has proposed a more participative role for young people through a “Mediterranean Youth Parliament”, on the occasion of the OSCE Mediterranean Conference held in Vienna on 5-6 October 2016. The Conference focused on “Youth North and South of the Mediterranean: Facing Security Challenges and Enhancing Opportunities”.
The Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM), was represented by the Honorary President, Senator Francesco Amoruso (Italy), who commented favourably the proposal put forward by Mr. Kobler: “If we really want to overcome the current turmoil and instability in the region, we must invest in our youth and instil in them a sense of ownership that goes beyond nationalisms and stereotypes. A parliamentary forum where they gather freely is a positive step forward towards intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding”.
The Conference provided a platform for exchanging views and experiences from North and South of the Mediterranean. OSCE participating States and Mediterranean Partners, including PAM, had the opportunity to share best practices and lessons learnt as well as formulating forward-looking recommendations in order to strengthen dialogue and enhance concrete opportunities for youth.