In 2016, the Pakistan International Human Rights Organization (PIHRO), with financial assistance from the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Islamabad, launched the Youth Development Program (YDP) a flagship initiative aimed at empowering young leaders from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) and Afghanistan. The program recognized that youth in conflict-affected regions face significant barriers to political participation, access to education, and socio-economic mobility, yet they represent a powerful force for peace, democratic governance, and sustainable development.

The Mission

To enhance political leadership skills, civic engagement, and peacebuilding capacity of young men and women from FATA and Afghanistan, enabling them to actively and meaningfully participate in national governance, community development, and conflict prevention.

Specific Objectives

Equip youth with the skills, confidence, and knowledge required to assume leadership roles and actively contribute to decision-making processes at local, national, and regional levels.
Encourage democratic empowerment and political inclusion of both male and female youth, ensuring their representation in civic and political spaces.
Promote better social, academic, and cultural integration of Afghan students studying in Pakistan, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.
Facilitate structured dialogue between citizens of FATA and state institutions, bridging historical trust gaps and promoting inclusive governance.
Nurture a culture of peace, human rights protection, and tolerance as a means to counter violent extremism and promote regional stability.

Beneficiaries

A total of 70 youth leaders were selected:

  • 👥 50 from FATA: 25 male, 25 female
  • 👥 20 from Afghanistan: 10 male, 10 female
Strategic Impact

YDP was not just a one-time training, but a capacity-building platform creating a new generation of leaders committed to democracy, peace, and human rights. A model of youth empowerment in post-conflict societies.

Expected Outcomes & Achievements

The Youth Development Program (YDP) 2016 fostered transformative changes among young leaders from FATA and Afghanistan. Below are the key outcomes and accomplishments that shaped empowered communities and resilient futures.

1. Politically Aware Youth Leaders

A more informed and engaged group of young leaders emerged, equipped to highlight community needs, advocate for legislative reforms, and influence policy agendas in line with the public interest.

2. Empowered Women Leaders

Young women participants were positioned to make independent decisions, champion their right to education, highlight gender-specific needs, and become role models inspiring other women in their regions.

3. Peace Building Advocates

Graduates actively promoted dialogue, reconciliation, and peace building, reducing violent extremism while fostering social cohesion in conflict-affected areas.

4. Strengthened Decision-making Skills

Through consistent dialogue with policymakers, youth built confidence to share perspectives, advocate for reforms, and assume leadership roles within their communities.

5. Mainstream Political Engagement

Many participants integrated into political processes, actively contributing to governance reforms and creating a stronger democratic foundation in FATA and Afghanistan.

6. Enhanced Citizen-State Relations

The program encouraged constructive youth engagement with political parties, resulting in stronger reform support and greater trust between marginalized communities and the state.