KHOST - It is critically important for young Afghans to take initiative in helping their communities move forward politically, economically and socially, said panellists in a televised UN-backed debate in the eastern province of Khost.

The main objective of the debate, which took place in the province’s capital and was backed by the regional office of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), was to address the role young Afghans can play in their communities and to encourage them, especially young women, to participate in the country’s social and political life.

The event drew a studio audience of 80 people from government offices, civil society organizations, academic institutions, human rights groups and media outlets, and was covered by several local television and radio stations, reaching an audience estimated at 250,000 people in and around Khost, a mountainous and mostly rural province that borders Pakistan.

In opening remarks, Zahid Shah Angar, a civil society activist and one of the panellists, underscored the importance of youth’s role in the promotion of community-level peace initiatives. “To prevent young Afghans from being misled or manipulated by insurgents, we must do more to create more jobs and employment opportunities,” said Mr. Angar.

Najibullah Alokhail, a human rights activist and also a panellist, said that if Afghans wants peace and economic development in their communities, young Afghans must be engaged and young women must play a role in in community development, particularly in local-level peace initiatives.

Mohammad Anwar Zahid, director of Khost’s Youth Affairs Department, outlined his work with other government institutions, and described how the department is regularly organizing meetings to discuss issues related to implementation of Afghanistan’s national youth policy, which was developed by the Ministry of Youth Affairs to meet the needs of young Afghans and develop their talents, skills and potential in the economic, social, cultural and political spheres.

UNAMA is mandated to support the Afghan Government and the people of Afghanistan as a political mission that provides 'good offices' among other key services. 'Good offices' are diplomatic steps UN takes publicly and in private, drawing on its independence, impartiality and integrity, to prevent international disputes from arising, escalating or spreading.

UNAMA also promotes coherent development support by the international community; assists the process of peace and reconciliation; monitors and promotes human rights and the protection of civilians in armed conflict; promotes good governance; and encourages regional cooperation.