How to Coexist? Vote for Your Favorite Idea

In the past seven weeks, teens from around the world got together to compete in the Buddies Without Borders Online Forum - Coexistence: Case Study on Peace & Change. Their final presentations and essays are ready for you to vote in the People's Choice Award category. The winners will be announced on Saturday, August 31.

Through discussions, reflections and collaborations, six students have been identified as the Top Five (with a tie) for most points earned. Their best writings will be shared here leading to the award ceremony.

Today, we would like to shine a spotlight on Angélica Regalado, an 11th grader from Unidad Educativa Particular Rosa de Jesús Cordero, Ecuador. Here is the excerpt from Angelica:

"Research shows that social isolation, lack of opportunities, and disenfranchisement from decision-making structures can act as push and pull factors for conflict and violent extremism." (Nair, 2023) Healthy communities not only reinforce the sense of belonging but also forge future leaders with true values, because of "meaningful connections with people, a sense of purpose, the ability to exercise agency through participation in society, and a respectful relationship with nature." (Nair, 2023)

Preventing future conflicts and working (to end) the current ones begins by recognizing our similarities and revitalizing education. Firstly, system changes need to be done urgently to protect vulnerable communities, ensure a dignified life and diminish the consequences of violence. Approaching coexistence requires sustained efforts that build societies where people grow as peaceful leaders, have a space to be better and work toward similar goals.

Despite the fact some groups already live in this dynamic, it is essential to introduce this peacebuilding strategy and encourage people to create their own sense of belonging in one or multiple places, even though we come from diverse cultures, "a sense of belonging is achievable for everyone. We all can work towards it and after all, we are all made out of the same matters." (Chham, 2019)

Being part of a group may look different to many individuals due to the fact some could identify their community based on ethnicity, nationality, and religion while others may belong to the category of global citizen. Everyone has a different take on where they belong; however, values and leadership cannot be lost. "On the other hand, some might argue that this statement is only true for those who have the privilege to fit into different communities in this world  (...) they can afford to be who they are and stick to their values and beliefs, even in situations or environments of cultures that might constrain that." (Chham, 2019)

Divided societies have deep wounds caused by geographical, ideological, and economic barriers that prevent people from having an identity and growing as leaders. Some people may consider that being part of a community is a privilege and, therefore a restrained right that turns peacebuilding into an unachievable and unjust strategy. Additionally, communities may affect negatively individuals when put under unexpected situations....

Where do you belong? do you think the absence of community sense promotes conflict?"