MAP Alum Speaks at the United Nations as an Artist for Social Good

On Thursday, July 11, Master in International Peacebuilding alum Amar Al Moussawy '24 spoke for the United Nations at an event titled "Visions for Sustainable and Youth-Led Peace Ahead of the Peacebuilding Architecture Review 2025."

Amar first spoke as an "Artist for the Social Good" and second as a member of the Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict (GPPAC) at the Permanent Mission of Finland to the United Nations in the "High-Level Political Forum." 

Focusing on firsthand experiences with local peacebuilders and youth activists, Amar stressed the importance of involving the people of unstable and conflicted areas, such as Lebanon and the Middle East, in decision-making processes instead of bringing pre-established agendas. "I especially focused on funding dilemmas and how sponsors force a certain theme on local youth, whereas their real needs don't always match," Amar said. 

When the Israel-Palestine war began, Amar cried all night after watching a video of a Palestinian child trembling in fear. "I asked God to show me how he helps these people because we are trying to call for a permanent ceasefire, but we can't stop it ourselves," Amar said. "The next day, the first thing that came to my screen was this kid happy and playing. I felt God was saying, [I'm here.]" The kid had been taken to a shelter where he received humanitarian care.

Amar, a portrait artist, was inspired by the story and drew the kid's joyful expression." With the drawing in her hands, Amar spoke at the UN about the importance of art and creativity in calling for peace and justice. Amar said the story resonated with the audience, who wanted to know more about artivism. Many expressed that she effectively represented the needs of peacebuilders, giving them a voice. This rewarding experience encourages Amar to keep her voice up.

A big part of Amar's statement was presented in front of a panel, including:

● Pasi Hellman, Under-Secretary of State for Development Policy, MFA Finland 

● Karoliina Vaakanainen, Finland's Youth Delegate to HLPF, Chair of Agenda2030 Youth Group 

● Roselyn Akombe, Chief of the Peacebuilding Strategy and Partnerships Branch, Peacebuilding Support Office 

● Delphine Bost, Interim Chief of Staff, UN Youth Office  

"I would like to thank Marina Kumskova, the Senior UN Policy and Advocacy Advisor, for helping me shape the statement and for her overall incredible support," Amar said. "And, of course, I would like to thank HIU for the incredible experience and knowledge it gave me in Peacebuilding throughout the previous year."

The event wasn't recorded to keep the space safe for everyone to speak and ask questions.

To learn more about Amar's background and previous speeches at the UN, click here. 

Congratulations, Amar!