BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Peace and security must begin with supportive communities where young people can grow and thrive, says Solomon Islands National Youth Congress General Secretary, Ms. Josie-Anne Ashley.

She made the call during a side event on regional integration and the Ocean of Peace held at the Aquatic Centre alongside the 54th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders’ Meeting in Honiara.

“On the topic of security, Solomon Islands, as well as other Pacific countries, we all know that young people make up a big portion of the population — 70 percent in the case of Solomon Islands. One growing concern is that we are not utilising our young people to get engaged.

“For young people, that is one major ask for this Ocean of Peace initiative. If we want to have peace, we need to work with our young people and utilise them,” Ms. Ashley said.

She said the key themes emerging from the Ocean of Peace discussion were sovereignty, regional unity, and partnerships.

“On sovereignty, it is something I hold highly, and I wish to see our leaders also stand firmly on it, making sure our needs are taken care of. On regional unity, I ask that our leaders ensure it is kept in place so we can move forward together,” she said.

Ashley added that youth expect to see concrete actions from leaders through the declaration.

“We need to see that our environment is better taken care of to help families grow food more sustainably. We also want our voices heard — to be part of discussions, to share views, and to contribute to solutions,” she said.

On partnerships, Ashley stressed that beyond regional and international ties, leaders must strengthen partnerships at the community level.

“Equally important are the partnerships our leaders have with our people. We want to see stronger connections between government, civil society, and young people, so we can all work together for this Ocean of Peace,” she said.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]