Women and Youth Must Shape Peace Decisions, Not Just Attend Talks – President Bio

President Julius Maada Bio has called for greater participation of women and young people in peace negotiations, insisting they must have a meaningful influence on decisions rather than simply being invited to attend discussions.

Speaking at the inaugural Geneva Peace Forum on Monday, October 12, 2026, Bio said inclusive participation was essential to building lasting peace and ensuring that agreements reflect the needs of affected communities.

“Women and young people must not simply be invited to the peace table. They must shape what it decides,” he said.

The Sierra Leonean leader identified inclusion as one of three key priorities for preventing conflict, alongside early action and maintaining open channels of dialogue.