Description
The "Seeding the Peace" Interfaith Youth Camp, held in early August in The Hague, Netherlands, gathered 20 participants aged 14-17 and six young moderators (19-32) from different European countries for an unforgettable five-day experience. The aim of the camp was to encourage intercultural friendships, explore interfaith dialogue, and promote environmental justice.
It was supported by URI Europe and co-organized by 4 organizations (CC), members of the URI network in Europe: Udhëtim i Lirë – Liberi di Viaggiare from Albania, BRIDGES from Bulgaria, Voem from Belgium, and Colorful Segbroek from the Netherlands, who organized the camp in the city of peace and justice, The Hague.
Udhëtim i Lirë – Liberi di Viaggiare from Albania participated with a group of 10 members: 7 young people representing the 3 major religious beliefs in Albania, youth leaders Marvina Mansaku and Ina Lushka, and the director of the organization, Miranda Mansaku. Albania is known for its religious coexistence, which the young participants expressed to their peers during the activities and workshops organized throughout the camp.
Participation in the Interfaith Youth Camp "Seeding the Peace" was an inspiring and transformative experience. During those five days, the young participants learned a great deal about other religions and cultures through all the activities and seminars the camp had to offer. One of the highlights was the visit to the Peace Palace, where they were introduced to its role in international justice.
Day 1: Building Friendships
The camp began with an official opening at the Broeders van Sint-Jan Monastery in The Hague city center, where participants from Albania, Bulgaria, Belgium, and the Netherlands were accommodated. The young people started getting to know each other and connecting with the help of various games. The youth leaders introduced the camp program, dividing everyone into groups based on the elements – air, water, fire, and earth. These groups were rotated throughout the days to motivate their peers, maintain order, keep common spaces clean, and document their experiences.
Day 2: Creating Interfaith Dialogue Cultures
On the second day, participants visited the Peace Palace, where they learned about its history and significance in promoting peace and international justice. The visit was followed by a seminar on interfaith dialogue focusing on the Golden Rule: "Treat others as you wish to be treated." Through interactive games, participants deepened their understanding of each other's cultural and religious backgrounds, creating a foundation for meaningful interfaith discussions.
Day 3: Environmental and Social Justice
The third day was a blend of cultural exploration and environmental education. Participants visited a Hindu temple (New Mandir), where they gained insights into the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of Hinduism. This was followed by an environmental seminar where they discussed the importance of sustainability and practical steps they could take to protect the environment. The guest speaker for the workshop on environmental justice, along with the youth moderators, was Dimitar Borumov. The day concluded with a self-reflection activity in which participants wrote postcards to their future selves, reflecting on their goals and aspirations.
Day 4: Peace and the Arts
A day full of energy, the participants explored The Hague, visited famous monuments, and enjoyed a fun activity at the beach. The afternoon session was led by His Highness, Prince Boris of Bulgaria, who came to support and contribute to the idea of intercultural and interfaith dialogue among young people. He held a seminar titled "Sowing Creativity."
The idea of peace and environmental justice was beautifully translated into a piece of art created by all the participants. The day concluded with a vibrant cultural exchange evening where participants shared their cultures through music, dancing, and food, creating lasting memories and deepening their connections.
