This week the United States will welcome South Asian teenagers to the State Departments under the “Seeds of Peace” programme.
Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs Judith McHale will, on Wednesday, address a group of young leaders from Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan who have just completed a three-week conflict resolution programme in Maine.
Founded in 1993 by journalist John Wallach, Seeds of Peace describes itself as being dedicated to empowering young leaders from regions of conflict with the leadership skills required to advance reconciliation and coexistence.
Beginning with 46 Israeli, Palestinian and Egyptian teenagers in 1993, the organisation’s network currently encompasses over 4,000 young people.
Support from the State Department, which has recognised the effectiveness of the model, made it possible in 2001 to launch the South Asia program with Indian and Pakistani youth.
