Youth play a crucial part in the dynamics of the Protection of Civilians (PoC) site in Malakal. To increase their understanding of the role of the peacekeeping mission in South Sudan, UNMISS on Friday invited 58 young people to a discussion held at the Catholic Church.

The discussion with prominent members from the PoC’s youth community focused on the mandate of UNMISS. A video showcasing the four tasks of the mission followed by an open discussion shed light on the challenges entailed in protection of civilians’ component of the mandate.

“We gained more understanding of the UNMISS mandate and civilian protection in a wider way today,” said youth representative John Othom. His fellow participant Suzana Oman Deng learned something else:  “Now I know that it is the primary responsibility of the republic of South Sudan to protect its own citizens, with the United Nations helping out in case of emergency.”

Participants from various sectors within the PoC took part in the event, jointly organized by the Communications and Public Information Section and the Gender Unit of UNMISS.

Gender Officer Batricia Paul stated that gender equality and respect for both men and women is vital to maintain agreeable living conditions in the difficult circumstances that tend to prevail in protection of civilians sites. She urged the gathered youth to be good role models by refraining from all kinds of violence and harassment.