This project aims to generate practical insights on how WFP programming and practices could be adapted in ways that contribute to reducing young people’s involvement in violent activities. Focussing on contexts in Honduras and Mozambique affected by gang related violence and armed insurgency, it connects to wider discussions within WFP on the relationship of its programming with issues of young people’s lives, conflict and peace.
The main research question is: How do WFP’s livelihood programmes and engagement with key partners influence the factors and conditions that prevent youth engagement in violent activities?
The research activities include:
- A global review: a desk-based literature review and stakeholder interviews to deepen understanding of the state of scholarly and policy debates around young people’s engagement in violent activities and more specifically the scope for aid interventions to influence these dynamics. The review identifies key issues, challenges, and questions to inform country-level research.
- Country studies: deeper work was undertaken in Honduras and Mozambique with the support of the relevant WFP Country Offices. Specific activities undertaken included the collection and review of country-specific literature and documents; key informant interviews with officials in WFP, other aid agencies, government departments, civil society, academic institutions and funding agencies; and focus group discussions with young women and young men. These avail evidence contributing to the global review on factors mitigating youth engagement in violence, emphasising where and how WFP programming can contribute.
The country reports and a global report will be completed by late 2023.
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