Mahdi Yahya Speaks at the European Parliament on the International Day of Democracy.
Brussels, Belgium – September 2018
In September 2018, Mahdi Yahya, Founder and Chairman of Peace of Art International, addressed policymakers, democracy advocates, youth leaders, and civil society representatives at the European Parliament in Brussels during the celebration of the International Day of Democracy. The event brought together participants from across Europe and beyond to discuss the role of leadership, youth engagement, and civic participation in strengthening democratic values and building more inclusive societies. The conference focused on the theme of democratic leadership and the importance of empowering young people to contribute to political and social change. (International IDEA)
Mahdi Yahya Speaks at the European Parliament
Representing the voice of youth and civil society from the Middle East, Mahdi Yahya highlighted the transformative role of art, culture, and dialogue in addressing some of the region’s most pressing challenges. His participation reflected years of grassroots work carried out through Peace of Art International, an organization founded to promote peacebuilding, social cohesion, intercultural dialogue, and youth empowerment.
During his speech, Yahya emphasized that peace cannot be achieved solely through political agreements or institutional reforms. Instead, lasting peace requires changing mindsets, creating opportunities for dialogue, and empowering young people to reject violence, discrimination, and sectarianism.
Addressing the audience, he stated:
“Art is our means to fight violence, discrimination, sectarianism, and to spread peace. Our message has always been clear. Even our name reflects this mission: Peace of Art.”
His remarks connected the values of democracy with the principles of peacebuilding, stressing that societies become stronger when diversity is embraced and when young people are given the opportunity to participate actively in shaping their communities.
The event coincided with the International Day of Democracy and took place only days after the International Day of Peace, giving additional significance to the message delivered by Peace of Art International. Referring to the symbolism of these international observances, Yahya noted:
“Today is a day that reflects our aspirations and our mission. The symbolism of peace is at the heart of our goals, and we continue to work with the hope that one day peace will prevail throughout the region.”
Throughout his intervention, he shared the experience of Peace of Art International in using artistic expression, education, cultural activities, and community initiatives as tools for conflict prevention and social transformation. He explained how music, theatre, visual arts, and dialogue programs can create safe spaces for young people, helping them overcome divisions and develop a culture of coexistence and mutual respect.
His speech also highlighted the responsibility of the international community to support youth-led initiatives that promote democratic values, social inclusion, and peaceful engagement. By investing in education, creativity, and civic participation, societies can strengthen resilience against extremism, hatred, and polarization.
Mahdi Yahya’s participation at the European Parliament marked an important milestone in the international recognition of Peace of Art International and its mission. It provided an opportunity to bring the experiences and perspectives of young peacebuilders from Lebanon and the Middle East to one of Europe’s most important democratic institutions.
The event reinforced a message that continues to guide Peace of Art International today: peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is a culture that must be built through dialogue, creativity, participation, and respect for human dignity.
For Mahdi Yahya and Peace of Art International, the European Parliament appearance represented more than a speaking engagement. It was a platform to advocate for a future in which art serves as a bridge between communities, democracy empowers citizens, and peace becomes a shared responsibility across borders.
