Applications are currently open for the African Youth Ambassadors for Peace (AYAP) initiative. This program is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda of the African Union (AU). In September 2018, the AU’s former Peace and Security Department, now integrated into the Political Affairs, Peace, and Security Department (PAPS), introduced the Youth for Peace (Africa) Program (Y4P). The initiative was designed to ensure that young Africans have a meaningful role in all aspects of peace and security, while discouraging their involvement in violence.

To further support the involvement of youth in advancing peace and security across the continent, the AU Peace and Security Council (PSC), during its 807th session, requested the AU Commission to select five regional African Youth Ambassadors for Peace. These ambassadors are expected to collaborate with the AU Youth Envoy to promote peace and security across Africa.

The program welcomes applications from African youth who have demonstrated dedication and tangible contributions to fostering sustainable peace and security in their communities. Applications from young women, displaced individuals, and persons with disabilities who meet the criteria are especially encouraged. Eligible candidates should be between 18 and 35 years old during their tenure as AYAP, in alignment with the AU Youth age framework. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and have a minimum of two years’ experience in the field of peace and security, including proven skills in advocacy on youth, peace, and security matters, as well as in mobilizing resources.

Candidates should also have experience in supporting and promoting peace initiatives, particularly in organizing and facilitating multi-stakeholder dialogues and mediation processes. A strong record of engagement within their local communities is required, alongside excellent communication and advocacy capabilities. Fluency in at least one of the AU’s working languages—English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Swahili, or Spanish—is necessary, while knowledge of an additional AU language is considered an advantage.

All selected AYAPs will serve a non-renewable two-year term, during which they are responsible for advocating for the inclusion of African youth in peace and security initiatives. They will highlight the contributions, resilience, and challenges faced by young Africans, while encouraging the development of policies and programs that address these challenges and enhance the impact of youth in peacebuilding efforts across the continent.

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