MUDHI ALOBTHANI (ABU DHABI)
The Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA) recently hosted a landmark session on the UN Security Council Resolution 2250, marking 10 years of its focus on youth, peace, and security. The event brought together more than 100 youth leaders from across the country to discuss their role in peacebuilding and humanitarian efforts.
Mohammed Ibrahim Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director General of AGDA, emphasised the responsibility of the youth in shaping the future of both the nation and the region.
“You are not just participants—you are key architects of the future of the UAE,” he said in his opening remarks. “In a world of rapid political, economic, and technological change, your engagement is critical. You are part of shaping the future — not just for the UAE, but for the region and the world.”
Al Dhaheri also reflected on the broader significance of Resolution 2250, highlighting the influence of the youth in global systems. “Today, young people actively shape politics, economics, and society. Their energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to defence are central to our foreign policy and the UAE’s strategic vision.”
A panel discussion held at the event featured notable speakers including Judge Dr Hamed Abdullah Murad, Assistant Professor of Public International Law and Human Rights; Dr Saad Yaaqeib, Director of the Department of Emirates Studies and Public Opinion at the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research; and Shahad Al-Abdouli, Media Representative for Operation Chivalrous Knight 3.
Al-Abdouli shared her firsthand experience in humanitarian initiatives, emphasising the role of the youth as both communicators and active participants in crisis response.
“My role as leader of the media team was to turn young people into humanitarian communicators. Experiencing reality directly allows them to speak and act with far more impact than any theoretical knowledge,” she said.
Al-Abdouli also described their work in Gaza, delivering food and water aid, packing almost 585 food parcels nonstop from 11 am to 11 pm, and ensuring essential supplies reached their recipients safely.
She reflected on the deeper meaning of participation: “This work is not just volunteering — it is a duty and an act of love. The Emirati youth are able not only to support their brothers and sisters in Gaza through prayers but also to personally ensure that aid and care reach them.”
The AGDA session demonstrated a multi-dimensional approach to youth engagement, combining policy discussions, peacebuilding strategies, and real-life humanitarian action. It reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to empowering young leaders to play an active role in shaping sustainable peace and security in the region and beyond.