In continuation of its efforts to promote an inclusive and sustainable peace process for Yemen, the Office of the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen (OSESGY) conducted a series of political dialogues in Aden, with civil society representatives from across various governorates in Yemen. These dialogues, held over the period of January 14 to 22, 2025, aimed to deepen engagement with local stakeholders and harness their insights on critical issues impacting the country’s trajectory towards peace. In addition to representatives from Aden, the meetings included sessions with organizations based in each of Lahj, Abyan, Al Dhalea, and Shabwa governorates, bringing together 64 civil society representatives from a diverse group of participants including representatives from local non-governmental organizations, women's groups, youth advocates, influencers and other civil society actors.
During the discussions, OSESGY provided an overview of its ongoing efforts and priorities across the political, economic, and security tracks. The Office outlined its mediation initiatives, engagement with key stakeholders, and strategies to support an inclusive and sustainable peace process. Participants were briefed on the broader framework guiding OSESGY’s work, including efforts to advance political negotiations, address economic challenges, and enhance security measures to promote stability and conflict resolution.
These dialogues held in Aden with civil society representatives were a part of OSESGY’s broader initiative, called the Political Dialogue Series. The first round of political dialogues was held from 2 to 23 October 2024 in Amman (more information is available [here](https://osesgy.unmissions.org/press-releases-1)), while the second round was held from 24 October to 19 December 2024 in Amman (more information is available here).
**Priorities for Advancing Peace Efforts**
Throughout the dialogues with civil society, there was a unanimous recognition of the critical need to build trust and transparency to advance the peace process in Yemen. Participants from various governorates consistently emphasized the significance of inclusivity and broad representation in the peace negotiations. They advocated for a peace process that encompasses not only the main political and military actors but also integrates a wider array of societal voices, including marginalized groups such as women, youth, and civil society organizations that have been pivotal in grassroots peacebuilding efforts.
A recurring theme across the discussions was the necessity for immediate confidence-building measures to lay the groundwork for a sustainable peace. Specific actions suggested included opening key transportation routes to facilitate civilian movement and economic exchange, releasing detainees, and implementing economic stabilization measures to address the severe decline in living standards caused by the conflict. These measures were seen as essential first steps to restoring faith in the peace process and providing tangible benefits to the Yemeni population, which could in turn foster greater support for reconciliation efforts.
Participants also stressed the importance of transparent communication and the implementation of previously agreed-upon agreements, such as the Stockholm Agreement and the outcomes of the National Dialogue Conference, to ensure that all parties are held accountable. They stressed that this approach was recommended to bridge the trust gap that has widened due to years of conflict and broken promises, making it imperative for all involved to adhere strictly to their commitments as a basis for building a lasting peace.
**Interconnected Challenges: Political, Economic, and Security Imperatives for Lasting Peace**
The dialogues highlighted a range of critical issues across political, economic, and security dimensions, essential for shaping Yemen’s path toward a sustainable peace. On the political front, participants emphasized the importance of implementing ceasefire agreements in a way that fosters long-term stability rather than temporary truces that allow for rearmament. They also stressed the necessity of an inclusive political process that reflects the diversity of Yemeni society, ensuring that negotiations are not solely dominated by traditional power players but incorporate civil society actors, youth, and women. There was a shared concern that without broader representation, any political settlement would lack legitimacy and risk further fragmentation. Additionally, discussions underscored the need to address the Southern Question in a structured and transparent manner, recognizing its centrality to Yemen’s future and the importance of establishing preliminary guarantees—such as political commitments or agreed-upon principles—to ensure that southern concerns are taken seriously and not sidelined in later stages of the peace process.
Economic concerns were also at the forefront of the discussions, with participants highlighting the urgent need for equitable resource distribution, particularly in governorates rich in oil and gas that have not benefited from their revenues. Economic stabilization was seen as a key confidence-building measure, with calls for immediate steps to curb inflation, stabilize the Yemeni rial, and revive essential sectors such as agriculture and fisheries. The ongoing economic deterioration was also linked to security concerns, as widespread unemployment and poverty have driven recruitment into armed groups. The presence of multiple armed factions, including those backed by regional actors, was identified as a major obstacle to both economic recovery and security sector reform. Participants stressed the need for clear mechanisms to reintegrate armed groups and ensure accountability, as well as for the international community to play a more active role in addressing external influences that have prolonged the conflict.
**Governorate-Specific Issues**
Each governorate presented distinct challenges and priorities shaped by its local political, economic, and security environments. While some concerns were shared across regions, others reflected the specific needs and circumstances of each area, demonstrating the necessity for localized approaches within the broader peace process.
**Aden**, as the temporary capital and a key political and economic hub, faces a complex set of challenges that impact both local governance and the broader national landscape. Discussions emphasized key priorities, including improving essential services, and enhancing economic opportunities. Participants highlighted the need for coordinated efforts to improve service delivery, while also addressing judicial and law enforcement challenges to support long-term stability. Security sector reforms were seen as vital to ensuring a safer environment for both residents and businesses, ultimately contributing to a more resilient local economy.
While the emphasis of participants coming from **Abyan** was on restoring basic services like electricity and water, the impact of prolonged instability on reconstruction efforts was a key focus, with discussions highlighting the importance of balancing immediate humanitarian needs with long-term development strategies. The presence of displaced populations alongside host communities was also discussed, with participants calling for equitable service distribution mechanisms that promote social cohesion and stability.
**Al Dhalea** participants underscored the need for significant infrastructure investment, particularly in healthcare and education. Participants emphasized that improving these sectors is crucial to reducing poverty and fostering long-term stability. The conversation highlighted the importance of empowering local communities to take an active role in development planning and decision-making. Sustainable solutions and greater investment in infrastructure, including roads, healthcare, and education, have been highlighted to address the developmental gaps that have left the governorate marginalized. The conversations of participants from **Shabwa** were dominated by concerns over the management of natural resources, particularly oil and gas revenues. They highlighted the stark contrast between the region’s wealth in natural resources and the persistent poverty experienced by local communities. There was a strong call for revenue-sharing mechanisms that ensure Shabwa’s residents benefit from the wealth generated by its natural resources. Concerns were also raised about conflicts over resource control and the influence of external actors in the governorate, further complicating efforts to establish local stability and economic justice.
Participants highlighted **Lahj**’s strategic location near Aden and Taiz as a key transit hub, yet they expressed concerns over the current condition of roads and infrastructure, which has deepened economic hardships for local communities. Beyond infrastructure, participants emphasized the importance of revitalizing the governorate’s industrial potential, including reactivating cement factories, supporting agricultural production, and promoting local industries to create jobs and strengthen local economic resilience. Strengthening security coordination and rebuilding trust between communities and local authorities were identified as key priorities for maintaining stability and fostering economic resilience.
**Moving Forward**
Participants recommended the establishment of a more structured dialogue mechanism that includes regular consultations with civil society. There was a call for the United Nations and other international stakeholders to play a more active role in facilitating and supporting these dialogues. Additionally, the need for capacity-building initiatives for local NGOs was underscored to enhance their ability to participate effectively in the peace process.
These discussions are a key component of OSESGY’s political dialogue series, in line with the Office’s commitment to fostering broad-based participation in Yemen’s peace process. Integrating the perspectives gathered, OSESGY seeks to enhance its mediation efforts and promote a more inclusive and sustainable path toward peace.