On the occasion of the International Day for Human Rights, UNDP’s Youth Leadership Programme (YLP) joined hands with Lebanese artist Manel Mallat to create a youth-inspiring music video, shot by local producers and featuring Lebanese Youth.
“Pledge to Humanity” is a music video beholding a message of hope and empowerment for the future generations of Lebanon. With the dire economic situation and the political instabilities it has caused, the Youth are pushing through the hardships and are standing hand in hand to create a better future for Lebanon. This music video’s objective was to portray that: the Youth’s powerful ability to unite and instill the peace they deserve to live in, by fighting for human rights and a future that is equal and just. Over 90 Lebanese Youth from across the country had come together under UNDP’s Youth Leadership Programme to take part in this significant and symbolic message of peace, and some of them even constituted the chorale that sang with Manel Mallat. Manel is a supporter of the YLP and a human rights advocate, and had took part of this project with UNDP’s YLP. The whole team had dedicated their time and efforts to turn this song into a meaningful music video, shot in the beautiful landscapes of Lebanon.
“Pledge to Humanity” was a song written and composed in Lebanon back in 2004 by the late Maya Massoud but it was never unfortunately released. With the song still being relevant and relatable 18 years later, it became very evident that this project would be of great importance as it would highlight the power of the Youth in overcoming all obstacles and challenges.
In a country that is struggling with multiple crises, one of UNDP’s main focuses remains empowering young men and women to be the pioneers of change by implementing innovative and sustainable development solutions. Thus, the music video sought to convey this message of empowerment and remind the Lebanese Youth that they are the pillars of change and that they will always be given a platform for their voices to be heard.
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/pojg-fZnCOo