This issue paper provides actors in the fields of Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) and/or security sector governance and reform (SSG/R) with guidance on how these two concepts are mutually compatible and reinforcing.

It details how SSG/R mechanisms can be leveraged to advance core YPS pillars (participation, protection, prevention, partnerships, and disengagement and reintegration) while also demonstrating how YPS perspectives can enhance the inclusiveness, effectiveness, and accountability of security sectors.

By mapping these mutual benefits, the document provides a strategic roadmap for integrating youth priorities into security sector governance and reform processes.
 

Integrating Youth, Peace and Security into SSG/R processes will not only strengthen youth inclusion but also enhance the quality, legitimacy, and sustainability of security reforms.

Commitments on youth participation, protection, prevention of violence, and access to justice all translate into obligations for security providers; whether safeguarding civic space, investigating abuses, strengthening accountability, or enabling youth contributions to peacebuilding.