Shabab Network

Timeframe: April 2011- May 2012
Location: West Bank
Donor: CRS

In recognition of the specific nature of youth issues, and the interconnection between of the overall political, economic and social challenges faced by Palestinian society, the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) and other national, regional and international organisations have noted that youth issues must be placed centrally on their agendas. The involvement of young people in society, and their engagement not only as beneficiaries, but also as participants and problem solvers, is a key element in the process of youth development. The importance of supporting Palestinian youth to become engaged in civil or community development work in the hope of contributing towards change in their communities cannot be overstated.
Shabab Network project offers an opportunity to address these needs by providing space, opportunity and an environment in which young people can develop their civic participation, learn, and experience what it means to become leaders and activists in their own communities
Capacity building sessions will be implemented in twelve locations across the West Bank. Each capacity building session will have a practical outcome whereby participants can put into practice the skills they have developed. This will result in the implementation of 12 debate and dialogue event, 12 advocacy actions and 12 community actions (one in each of the in the selected locations).
Target locations:
1- Hebron: Suier, Bet Omar and Bet Ola
2- Jordan Valley: Zubeidat, Jeftlek and Marj Na’aje
3- Qalqilya: Kfor Thelth, Hable and Janesafoot.
4- Jenin: Jenin, Fahme and Arabeh.
Shabab Network Aims to:
To contribute to the capacity of young people to be engaged citizens in the process of building a culture of mutual respect and democracy in their communities.
By:
1. Increase capacity of young people to use tools of debate, dialogue, new media, and social action to engage as active citizens in their communities.
2. Provide space and opportunity for young people to dialogue with local decision makers.
3. Promote the spirit of volunteerism and opportunities to be active citizens through volunteering.
4. Identify a network of young people for future advocacy work.