
It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the upcoming conclusion of the GALE program—over seven years, the Global Action Local Empowerment (GALE) program has fostered a strong sense of camaraderie, solidarity, and mutual growth among all of us – youth-led, driven and focused partners from across the globe.
The GALE program is implemented by eight partners and coordinated by the National Council of Swedish Children and Youth Organizations (LSU). Our work is conducted in Belarus, Lebanon, Kenya, Myanmar, Sweden, the Philippines, Zimbabwe and Türkiye. In our collective pursuit of creating just societies characterized by active youth participation, inclusivity, and respect for human rights, we unite and support a diverse array of children and youth through our member organizations in each respective country to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
GALE has been instrumental in strengthening both our national networks and international alliances, contributing towards a strong and consolidated youth voice at national, regional and global levels. GALE has provided us with spaces to share ideas, exchange expertise, and build institutions that are capable of driving meaningful change for young people. Through this program, we have not only supported each other but have empowered youth and communities to create a lasting impact.
The termination of the GALE program presents substantial hurdles, especially as it has been a crucial support system for our national initiatives and our broader connections within the youth movement. In 2024, GALE partners found themselves rapidly adapting to the program’s termination—shortening timelines and adjusting annual plans to meet project goals within the new timelines, and with the knowledge that this would be the last year that GALE will exist in its current iteration. While these changes are difficult and further strain limited resources, they reinforce the resilience of our networks and the importance of what we have built together.
Looking forward, we remain hopeful and committed to finding new avenues to sustain and strengthen the work that GALE has supported, and to ensure that the partnerships, collaborations, and spirit of solidarity nurtured by GALE are preserved.
This letter is not just a reflection on what we’ve achieved, but also a call to remember the connections we’ve formed, the progress we’ve made, and the immense value that this program has brought to us and the young people that we serve. It is important for decision-makers, members, and the wider public to understand what we have created, what will be missed, and what we hope to preserve moving forward.
We encourage everyone who has benefited from GALE to join us in these communication efforts and share their experiences, as we collectively mark the end of a powerful and impactful journey.
Beyond this period, we are hopeful to maintain the networks, and great working relationships as we accelerate the youth agenda in our various countries.
Kontakt
Sogend Barzani
Projektledare bilaterala partnerskap
sogend.barzani@lsu.se