During the high-level event, “Empowering Youth, Transforming Societies,” hosted by Silatech at the International Conference Centre Geneva, Her Highness reaffirmed Silatech’s commitment to tackling rising youth unemployment through economic and social empowerment, particularly in developing regions with increasingly young populations.

At 30 percent, youth unemployment in the Arab region is currently one of the highest in the world, compared to 13 percent globally. “Without meaningful work, our young men and women have no hope for the future, leaving them more vulnerable to radicalization, violence, and political extremism,” said Sheikha Moza.

She warned that without decent livelihood opportunities and meaningful work frustrated youth become socially, politically and economically excluded, exacerbating pressing global challenges like poverty, social unrest, and illegal mass migration.

“Young men and women need the chance to earn a living that will allow them to support their families, contribute to society, and build better futures,” she continued. “This is the hope that Silatech offers.” Established in 2008, Silatech, with the help of over 300 partners, has successfully empowered more than one million young people with economic opportunities and jobs in 17 countries.

Sheikha Moza also participated in a panel where she discussed some of the challenges Silatech programs face, including regional instability and economic exclusion. As a solution, she stressed the importance of investing in both education and employment.

“Education without employment can lead to frustration… and employment without education is a false dream,” said Sheikha Moza.

Sheikha Moza emphasized the role of quality education in shaping youth for the future, but it must be followed by meaningful employment to give youth a chance to become productive citizens and “the engine of economic growth.”

The event included speakers and panelists such as Michelle Bachelet Jeria, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Hassan Ali Khayre, Prime Minister of Somalia, Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees.