Youth For Peace

Zakaria El Hamel: Morocco’s Architect of Peace and Global Voice for Human Rights

admin — Mon, 04 May 2026 22:54:28 +0000

By: Youth For Peace Media Team.

Date: May 2026

In an era defined by global polarization, few individuals have managed to bridge the gap between grassroots activism and international diplomacy as effectively as Zakaria El Hamel. Based in the historic city of Oujda, the “Eastern Gateway” of Morocco, El Hamel has emerged as a preeminent figure in peacebuilding, transforming the landscape of youth engagement across the Mediterranean and Africa.

Roots of Advocacy

Born on August 22, 1980, El Hamel’s commitment to justice was inherited. Raised in a household where his father served as a prominent human rights defender, Zakaria was exposed to the principles of equality and civic duty from a young age. This upbringing instilled in him the conviction that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) should not merely be a document for scholars, but a living tool for every citizen.

Youth for Peace: A Two-Decade Legacy

In 2005, El Hamel founded the organization Youth for Peace and Dialogue Between Cultures. His vision was revolutionary in its simplicity: to combat extremism and intolerance through the systematic education of the next generation.

Key Milestones of Impact:

The 50,000 Milestone: El Hamel is credited with personally overseeing the education of more than 50,000 young people regarding the 30 articles of the UDHR. This massive educational undertaking has created a “human infrastructure” of informed citizens across Morocco.

Intercultural & Interreligious Dialogue: He has been a pivotal force in bringing together Muslim, Christian, and Jewish leaders to foster social cohesion. His work emphasizes that Morocco’s diverse heritage is its greatest strength in the fight against radicalization.

Global Media Recognition: His efforts were the subject of a dedicated episode of the international documentary series “Voices for Humanity,” which broadcast his mission to audiences in over 240 countries and territories.

2026: A Landmark Year of International Recognition

The year 2026 has solidified El Hamel’s status as a global leader in the field of non-violence and “Citizen Diplomacy.”

Oujda: International City of Peace: In March 2026, following El Hamel’s long-standing initiative, the city of Oujda was officially designated as the 468th International City of Peace, a historic recognition of the region’s commitment to coexistence.

Leo Tolstoy International Peace Prize: El Hamel received an official nomination for this prestigious award in early 2026, placing him among the world’s most respected advocates for global harmony.

Tällberg-SNF-Eliasson Global Leadership Prize: His nomination for this prize in April 2026 highlights his role as a leader with the “moral courage” to address the world’s most pressing challenges through innovative peacebuilding strategies.

A Pan-African Icon

Zakaria El Hamel’s influence extends far beyond the borders of Morocco. As a recipient of the Pan-African Humanitarian Award (presented in Tanzania), he is viewed as a bridge between North Africa and the Sub-Saharan regions. He consistently advocates for the role of youth in the African Union’s peace and security agendas, promoting a “South-South” cooperation model built on shared values and mutual respect.

Conclusion: The “Silent” Diplomat

Zakaria El Hamel represents a new breed of activist one who balances firm principles with a pragmatic approach to education and dialogue. As the President of Youth for Peace and Dialogue Between Cultures, he has proven that one individual’s dedication to the 30 articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights can spark a movement that resonates across continents.

Today, as he stands on the world stage as a nominee for the highest honors in peace and leadership, El Hamel remains a symbol of hope, proving that the road to global stability is paved with the education and empowerment of the youth.

“Human rights are not just legal texts; they are a daily practice that begins with the recognition of the other.” Zakaria El Hamel

Moroccan Peace and Human Rights Advocate Zakaria El Hamel Nominated for Prestigious Global Leadership Prize

admin — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 22:14:52 +0000

Oujda, Morocco — April 30, 2026 — Moroccan peace and human rights advocate Zakaria El Hamel has been officially nominated for the 2026 Tällberg-SNF-Eliasson Global Leadership Prize, an internationally recognized award honoring outstanding leaders who demonstrate courage, creativity, and integrity in addressing the world’s most complex challenges.

Presented by the Tällberg Foundation, the prize celebrates individuals whose leadership contributes to shaping a more just, sustainable, and peaceful future. El Hamel’s nomination places him among a diverse and competitive global pool of leaders from across sectors and regions.

Zakaria El Hamel is widely known for his commitment to promoting human rights, intercultural dialogue, and non-violence, particularly through youth engagement and international cooperation initiatives. His work has contributed to advancing peacebuilding efforts and strengthening global awareness around the importance of dialogue and coexistence.

“I am deeply honored by this nomination,” said El Hamel. “It reflects not only my personal journey, but also the collective efforts of all those working tirelessly to promote peace, dignity, and human rights in our communities and beyond.”

The selection process for the prize involves multiple stages, including evaluation by a pre-jury and an international jury. Finalists are expected to be announced in September 2026, with up to three winners revealed in November 2026. Prize recipients will be honored at a global ceremony in 2027 and will receive an unrestricted grant of $50,000, made possible by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation.

Founded in 1981, the Tällberg Foundation is dedicated to exploring global challenges and promoting ethical leadership in an increasingly complex world. Through its initiatives, the Foundation seeks to inspire new thinking and action on issues such as climate change, governance, technology, and global cooperation.

This nomination marks a significant milestone in Zakaria El Hamel’s ongoing mission to advance peace and human rights on both regional and international levels.

Zakaria El Hamel Nominated for the Prestigious Leo Tolstoy International Peace Prize

admin — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:49:50 +0000

OUJDA, MOROCCO — The Youth for Peace and Dialogue Between Cultures organization is proud to announce that its president, Zakaria El Hamel, has been officially nominated for the Leo Tolstoy International Peace Prize. The nomination has been formally acknowledged by the Foundation’s Deputy Director, Vadim Karasev, and has moved to the jury review stage.

Named after the world-renowned humanist and philosopher, this international award honors outstanding contributions to peacebuilding and the strengthening of friendship between peoples.

Zakaria El Hamel’s nomination highlights his decades of commitment to human rights education—most notably his campaign to train 50,000 youth—and his leadership in establishing Oujda as an International City of Peace.

“This nomination belongs to the youth and the community of the Oriental region,” the organization stated. “It validates our mission to use dialogue and non-violence as the primary tools for building a more tolerant world.”

Oujda, Morocco: Youth Transforms a Border City into an International Beacon of Peace

admin — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 22:58:50 +0000

Oujda, Morocco – In an era where geopolitical crises and social tensions dominate the headlines, a quiet Moroccan city is capturing the world’s attention. Oujda, located on Morocco’s eastern border, has just been recognized as the 468th International City of Peace by International Cities of Peace, a global network of communities committed to peace, social justice, and intercultural dialogue.

What sets Oujda apart is not only its historic heritage or its role as a cultural crossroads between Africa and Europe, but the bold initiative of its youth. Under the leadership of activists like Zakaria El Hamel, the city’s young leaders are reinventing the notion of diplomacy and peace—not through international conferences, but within their own community, in schools, neighborhoods, and local forums.

“Peace is not built only in international institutions; it is also born in cities, schools, and communities. From Oujda, we send the world a simple yet powerful message: when young people believe in dialogue, human dignity, and the universal values of human rights, even a border city can become a beacon of peace for humanity.”

Zakaria El Hamel

A Youth That Inspires the World

The local initiative highlights the central role of young people in building a peaceful society. Through educational programs, intercultural dialogue projects, and concrete civic actions, Oujda demonstrates how local engagement can resonate on the international stage.

“We understood that to build a more peaceful world, we must start with our communities,” explains El Hamel. “Young people are not only the future; they are the present of peace.”

Recognition That Opens Doors

Oujda’s integration into the International Cities of Peace network offers the city unique opportunities for international cooperation, educational exchanges, and cultural partnerships. This recognition positions Oujda as a model for cities worldwide, proving that peace can emerge from citizen will and local commitment.

Voices for Humanity: Oujda on the World Map of Human Rights.

The city’s global visibility was further amplified when Voices for Humanity filmed an episode in Oujda, dedicated to the story of Zakaria El Hamel, recognized as Morocco’s most outstanding peace and human rights activist. Broadcast to 240 countries and territories, the episode placed Oujda firmly on the world map of human rights, transforming the city into a symbol of peace and resilience.

This international spotlight not only honored El Hamel’s lifelong dedication to youth empowerment and intercultural dialogue, but also showcased Oujda as a living example of how local activism can inspire global change.

Toward a Moroccan Citizen Diplomacy

In a regional context often marked by mistrust and tensions, the work of Zakaria El Hamel and Oujda’s youth becomes an inspiring example of citizen diplomacy—where education, intercultural dialogue, and local initiatives are transformed into global tools for peace.

Today, Oujda is no longer just a Moroccan border city: it is an international symbol, proof that social transformation, driven by youth, can illuminate the entire world.

Zakaria El Hamel: Teaching 50,000 Moroccan Youth the Meaning of Human Rights

admin — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:00:08 +0000

In a world where the language of human rights is often discussed in political halls and academic circles, a young Moroccan activist has chosen a different path—bringing these principles directly to the next generation. Zakaria El Hamel, founder of the organization Youth for Peace and Dialogue Between Cultures, has reached more than 50,000 Moroccan youth, teaching them the principles and values of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

This initiative represents one of the most significant grassroots human rights education efforts led by a young activist in Morocco.

From Words to Reality

Adopted by the United Nations in 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights established a global standard of dignity, equality, and freedom for all people. Yet for many young people around the world, these principles remain abstract concepts found only in textbooks.

Zakaria El Hamel believes that human rights must be understood not only as international law but as everyday values that shape society.
Through workshops, youth forums, school visits, and community activities across Morocco, he has helped thousands of young people discover the meaning of rights such as:
The right to dignity and equality
Freedom of expression
The right to education
Respect for cultural diversity
Peaceful dialogue between communities
By presenting these ideas in simple, accessible language, El Hamel transforms global principles into practical values for daily life

Empowering a Generation

For El Hamel, youth are not just the future—they are the present force of change.
His approach is based on a simple belief: when young people understand their rights and responsibilities, they become powerful agents of peace, tolerance, and social progress.
Instead of focusing only on activism at the political level, he invests in education and awareness, encouraging young Moroccans to:
Respect human dignity
Reject discrimination and hatred
Promote dialogue between cultures
Stand up peacefully for justice and equality
This method creates a ripple effect. Each young person who learns about human rights can influence their family, community, and peers.

Why Zakaria El Hamel Is Doing This

Zakaria El Hamel’s mission is rooted in a clear vision: making human rights a lived reality in Morocco.
For him, human rights are not merely legal documents or international declarations—they are the foundation of a peaceful and inclusive society.
By teaching the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to 50,000 Moroccan youth, El Hamel hopes to:
Build a culture of respect and tolerance
Strengthen democratic values
Prevent extremism and social division
Encourage young people to become responsible global citizens
His work reflects a long-term vision: a Morocco where every citizen understands that peace, dignity, and equality belong to everyone.
A Grassroots Movement for Peace

Through the work of Youth for Peace and Dialogue Between Cultures, Zakaria El Hamel has built a youth-driven movement that connects human rights education with intercultural dialogue and peacebuilding.
The impact goes beyond numbers. Reaching 50,000 young people means planting 50,000 seeds of awareness—future leaders who may become teachers, activists, policymakers, or community leaders committed to justice and dialogue.

Inspiring Change

Zakaria El Hamel’s initiative demonstrates that meaningful change does not always begin with governments or institutions. Sometimes it begins with one individual who believes that education can transform society.
By bringing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights directly to young people, he is helping create a generation that understands not only what human rights are, but also why they matter.
In doing so, Zakaria El Hamel is contributing to a powerful idea: that the path toward peace and dignity begins with knowledge—and that when youth are empowered with that knowledge, they can help build a better world.

🕊️ Youth for Peace and Dialogue Between Cultures – Official Statement

admin — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 04:40:32 +0000

Youth for Peace and Dialogue Between Cultures expresses deep concern over the escalating military strikes and retaliatory actions that threaten peace and stability in the Middle East.

We reaffirm that violence and armed confrontation can never be a solution to political disagreements. History has shown that in every conflict, innocent civilians especially young people and families bear the greatest suffering.

We call on all parties to exercise restraint, immediately de-escalate tensions, and return to dialogue and diplomacy. The future of our region must be shaped through cooperation, mutual respect, and peaceful negotiation, not through destruction and fear.

As youth committed to human rights, intercultural dialogue, and global solidarity, we stand firmly for peace, human dignity, and the protection of all civilians everywhere.

May peace prevail in the middle east.

#YouthForPeace #DialogueBetweenCultures #PeaceNow #HumanRights #DiplomacyFirst

Zakaria El Hamel Appointed to the Gandhi-Mandela Foundation’s International Team in Spain

admin — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 21:47:44 +0000

We are proud to announce that Zakaria El Hamel, President of Youth for Peace Association and an internationally recognized peacebuilder, has been officially appointed as a member of the International Team of Collaborators of the Gandhi-Mandela Foundation in Spain.

This prestigious appointment, awarded in January 2026, represents a significant recognition of Zakaria El Hamel’s long-standing dedication to peacebuilding, human rights, and intercultural dialogue at local, regional, and international levels.

The official certificate accompanying this appointment bears the engraved portraits of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela, two global icons of nonviolence, justice, and moral leadership. Their legacy reflects the very principles that guide Zakaria El Hamel’s work—principles he actively advances through youth-led initiatives and cross-cultural engagement across Africa, Europe, and the Mediterranean region.

Through his leadership at Youth for Peace Association, Zakaria El Hamel has consistently promoted dialogue, inclusion, and peaceful coexistence, with a strong focus on empowering young people as agents of positive change. His appointment to the Gandhi-Mandela Foundation’s international team further reinforces the growing recognition of youth-driven diplomacy as a powerful force for global transformation.

“This appointment is not merely a personal honor; it is a call to deepen our shared mission for justice, dignity, and youth-led transformation.”

— Zakaria El Hamel

Official Statement of Solidarity

admin — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 00:15:36 +0000

The organization Youth for Peace & Dialogue Between Cultures expresses its full solidarity with Ms. Francesca Albanese, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, in light of the recent calls for her dismissal or resignation following her reports and public statements regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

We reaffirm that the mandate of Special Rapporteurs, established by the United Nations Human Rights Council, is grounded in independence, impartiality, and professional integrity. Their role is to monitor, document, and report on human rights situations in accordance with international law, free from political pressure or interference

Youth for Peace & Dialogue Between Cultures firmly believes that protecting human rights defenders and safeguarding the independence of UN mechanisms are essential pillars of accountability, justice, and the rule of law. Legal analysis and reporting based on international humanitarian law and human rights standards must be respected and protected.

In line with our mission to promote peace, intercultural dialogue, and youth engagement, we call for:

Full respect for international humanitarian law in all circumstances.

Protection of civilians and unimpeded humanitarian access.

Support for UN efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace grounded in human dignity and equal rights for all.

Defending human rights is not a political stance — it is a universal moral and legal obligation.

Issued by

Youth for Peace & Dialogue Between Cultures

Morocco

Statement on the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism

admin — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 14:44:28 +0000

On the occasion of the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism, Youth for Peace & Dialogue Between Cultures – Morocco reaffirms its unwavering commitment to promoting peace, tolerance, and intercultural dialogue.

Violent extremism remains one of the most serious threats to peace, human dignity, and sustainable development worldwide. It undermines social cohesion, fuels hatred, and destroys the foundations of coexistence. Preventing extremism is not only a security priority, but a moral and educational responsibility shared by governments, civil society, educators, religious leaders, and especially young people.

As a Moroccan youth-led organization founded in Oujda in 2005, Youth for Peace & Dialogue Between Cultures believes that empowering young people is the most effective and sustainable response to radicalization. Through dialogue initiatives, intercultural programs, human rights education, and interfaith engagement, we work to build resilience against hatred and intolerance.

Morocco, as a land of coexistence and cultural diversity, offers an inspiring model of moderation and peaceful living. We are proud to contribute to strengthening these values locally, nationally, and internationally.

On this important day, we call for:

Investing in education that promotes critical thinking and human rights

Supporting youth-led peace initiatives

Strengthening intercultural and interreligious dialogue

Addressing root causes of radicalization such as marginalization and social exclusion

Promoting digital literacy to counter online extremist narratives

Extremism is an affront to humanity. Together, through dialogue and solidarity, we can build a future where diversity is celebrated and peace prevails.

No to extremism. Yes to peace, dignity, and dialogue.

Zakaria El Hamel

Youth for Peace and Dialogue: Promoting Basketball for Peace

admin — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 22:21:56 +0000

At Youth for Peace and Dialogue, we believe in the transformative power of sport to unite communities, foster understanding, and empower young people. Basketball, in particular, is more than just a game—it is a tool for dialogue, inclusion, and positive change.
We support and implement programs that use basketball as a platform to promote peace, social cohesion, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through basketball, we encourage teamwork, respect, and mutual understanding among youth, helping build bridges across cultures and communities.
By supporting Basketball for Peace, we aim to create safe spaces where young people can learn, grow, and become active contributors to a more peaceful and inclusive society.