Al-Jazirah

During the 1980’s and the 90’s, some families were shocked to find that their sons had left home and disappeared without any warning. The young men had joined terrorist organizations in areas of war and conflict. Many parents were overcome with grief at the loss of their children who were killed in war zones. These young men were used as human shields on the front lines, or as suicide bombers who drove a truck bomb or wore an explosive belt.

However, in the last few years, we have been experiencing a different kind of disappearance, in which young women run away on the pretext of searching for freedom and then are politically exploited. This happened after the Internet and social media revolution that turned our world into a small room with different customs, ideas and beliefs.

In both the case of these young men and young women, the core of the problem is the absence of a common language between parents and their children. They do not share discussions or talk as friends or have proper ways of interacting. Instead, it is nothing but stubbornness, harshness and decisions made in the name of parental authority. Children are not given the opportunity to speak up and make decisions for themselves. This serves to create a major gap between the two generations.

That is why we must stress the importance of intergenerational dialogue. We must create an atmosphere of understanding in our homes and schools in order to create a suitable environment for dialogue and discussion. We should build a bridge that spans the gap between the two generations, and boosts confidence, love and forgiveness between them.

Twitter: @almohaimeed