RAMALLAH, July 15, 2025 (WAFA) – As the world marks World Youth Skills Day on July 15, the resilience and determination of Palestinian youth stand out as powerful testaments to hope and leadership amid ongoing war, displacement, and blockade.
Despite the catastrophic conditions in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip, young Palestinians are forging paths of purpose, honing leadership, digital, and life skills, and playing a vital role in humanitarian response and community resilience, according to ActionAid International.
In a press release, the organization commended Palestinian youth for channeling their abilities into meaningful action, often under fire and amidst deep restrictions on movement, education, and employment. “They are not content with being passive victims of crisis,” the statement read, “but instead take initiative, designing and leading community-driven humanitarian efforts that respond to urgent needs.”
ActionAid highlighted how young people have developed expertise in crisis management, teamwork, strategic communication, and digital mobilization. With educational institutions in ruins, many turned to online platforms to continue learning, engage in remote freelance work, and amplify their voices globally—especially as international journalists remain barred from Gaza.
"Engaging in humanitarian work despite displacement and bombardment boosted my confidence and gave me strong networking and communication skills,” said Walaa, a youth humanitarian group member from Gaza. “It made me feel empowered to contribute meaningfully to my community."
Ahmad Kilani, a member of the same group from the West Bank, emphasized the value of skills he gained through fieldwork: "I’ve learned how to assess community needs, design aid strategies, evaluate impact, and build networks with local and international organizations for long-term positive change."
ActionAid – Palestine has been actively training youth in emergency and disaster response and supports the Palestinian Youth Humanitarian Taskforce, a collective of young activists in Gaza and the West Bank. The group leads grassroots initiatives and advocacy campaigns calling for an end to the war and a just peace in accordance with international law.
Despite enduring immense suffering, the organization affirms that Palestinian youth have not been broken. Instead, their experiences have fueled a powerful drive for self-improvement and community service—positioning them as essential partners in building a more just and humane future.
Y.S
