Standing Up When Vulnerable
How can young people in vulnerable situations, including situations of conflict, violence and insecurity, advocate for their rights?
First and foremost, young people in vulnerable situations must prioritize their safety and protection (refer to the previous question: How can I stay safe and be protected while defending my rights?).
If you are unable to actively advocate for your own rights, in order to minimize any potentially severe risks or threats, try to identify organizations that can support you, to raise awareness and call for action on the challenges that you, and others like you are facing. These may include civil society organizations working to protect human rights or international organizations such as the United Nations.
Where can I learn more?
For more information on the work of the United Nations to protect human rights during conflict situations visit the UN Human Rights website.
Section D of the toolkit provides more information on youth rights in peacebuilding and humanitarian settings.
Have a look at the 11 ways to help young people in conflict zones (available in English).
Engaging With Human Rights Mechanisms
There are different ways in which you can engage with the work of UN human rights mechanisms and processes.