Stories about Conversations for a Better World

Darfur: Youth Keep Crisis in the Spotlight

  13 February 2010

Though the major conflict has ceased in Darfur, in western Sudan, the continuing instability and ongoing attacks have been particularly harmful for the region's young people. But youth both within and outside of Sudan have been vital in raising awareness and funds and trying to bring change to Darfur.

A ‘climate of fear’ at the Thai-Burma border

  3 February 2010

Between 1.5-2 million Burmese refugees live in Thailand. For many reasons, this young, traumatized population knows little about reproductive health, which underscores the need for peer health educators and improvements in access to health care.

Haiti: Youth Step It Up for Earthquake Relief

  26 January 2010

As Haiti's government raised the confirmed earthquake death toll to 150,000 earlier this week, there is particular concern for the well-being of the country's most vulnerable - its young people. But youth within and outside of Haiti are contributing to efforts to raise aid and awareness.

Afghanistan: Youth Find Outlets Amid Ongoing Violence

  20 January 2010

Last year was the deadliest one for Afghanistan's civilians, including children, since the American-led war began in 2001. Despite the circumstances, efforts are being made nationwide by and for youth to maintain their health and education and to empower them.

Morocco: Aicha Ech Chenna Wins Opus Prize

  13 November 2009

In Morocco, women who get pregnant out of wedlock are often shunned from their communities. Activist and social worker Aicha Ech Chenna has been working for almost 25 years to help such mothers and their children. Now, her efforts are being rewarded.

India: Women Farmers Stand Against Climate Change

  10 November 2009

A group of women in India have demonstrated that despite the existing gender inequity and their low economic status, they can become a powerful resource to tackle climate change and reduce the emissions that cause it.

Latin America: The Rapid Spread of Desertification

  4 November 2009

Desertification is silently but rapidly spreading around the world and Latin America is not escaping its devastating effects. While deserts are natural formations, desertification is a process of degradation of lands affected by climate change and human destruction.

Peru: The Abortion Debate

  26 October 2009

The abortion debate in Peru has reemerged due to a bill that has been approved in the Special Committee of the Penal Code in the Peruvian Congress, which would decriminalize abortion in cases of rape or congenital disorders in the fetus.