The United Network of Young Peacebuilders (UNOY) in collaboration with The African Committee is organizing the African Students’ Conference (ASC) 2009 in the Peace Palace. This year’s topic will be: "Building peace in Africa: The role of Communication in Conflict Transformation". We are often confronted with negative perceptions of the role of communication in conflict transformation. The ASC 2009 aims to provide positive examples of how the media can be used for constructive change. We are envisioning an inspiring event that shows best practices of how different forms of (new) media and communications can be used to transform conflicts all over Africa.

In 2009 the United Network of Young Peacebuilders (UNOY) and The African Committee (TAC) will organize the 11th African Students’ Conference. The first African Students’ Conference was organized by the Hague Appeal for Peace (HAP) during its HAP-99 conference. The African Students’ Conference serves to inform, involve, and raise participants’ awareness about youth and conflict transformation in Africa. A different topic is chosen each year, depending on the most crucial issue at the time. The ASC has grown into a big event attracting about 250-300 participants. It offers a forum for African students, African Diaspora youth and Dutch students to meet, discuss, and exchange inspiring ideas.