25 Young People Equipped to Analyze the Causes of Violence and Promote Peaceful Demonstrations

Twenty-five young people from the city of Beni, in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, are now able to identify and analyze the factors behind the resurgence of insecurity in their communities. This capacity was acquired through a youth violence analysis workshop organized by the Commission Justice, Peace and Safeguarding of Creation (CJPSC).

The objective of this training was to contribute to concrete change in the fight against violence among young people in North Kivu, in a context marked by recurrent tensions during demonstrations and in daily life.

“As a member of LUCHA, I am committed to raising awareness among my fellow activists to ensure that, during our demonstrations, we consider and address the factors that can prevent them from escalating into violence,” stated Itula Placide, one of the participants.

Mr. Jacques Nzanzu, Program Director at CJPSC, emphasized the need to sustain and expand such capacity-building initiatives, stating: “The culture of violence has taken root among young people, with serious consequences in the short, medium, and long term. It is therefore essential to multiply this kind of initiative.”

The city of Beni continues to bear the scars of past massacres that claimed the lives of thousands. Against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, many young people remain profoundly affected by this violence. In response, they frequently take to the streets to demand security and the protection of their fundamental rights. Unfortunately, these demonstrations sometimes escalate into looting, injuries, and even loss of life.

Through this new training, CJPSC seeks to equip young people to become advocates for peace—capable of guiding their peers and transforming public demonstrations into platforms for nonviolent advocacy. In doing so, they aim to foster a safer and more united community in Beni.