Over 3,000 young leaders from around the world gathered at Peking University on July 29 for the World Youth Peace Conference, a landmark event marking the 80th anniversary of victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. Co-hosted by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the All-China Youth Federation, the conference launched the multilingual World Youth Peace Initiative under the theme "Together for Peace."
The initiative urges youth to champion global stability through cross-cultural dialogue and collaborative problem-solving. Key discussions addressed climate action and ethical technology development, with participants emphasizing intergenerational responsibility. "Our predecessors illuminated darkness with unity 80 years ago. Today, we must define the future through action," read the initiative's statement.
This gathering highlights Asia's growing role as a platform for youth-led diplomacy, particularly as geopolitical tensions rise globally. Academics noted its timing ahead of September's UN General Assembly, where youth engagement in peacebuilding will be a key agenda item.
