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This learning resource was made in Britain, but the inspiration is Afghanistan, a country that has known over three decades of constant war. At its heart is the true story of Aymel, a young boy who never really knew his father because of a drone strike. We would not be able to share this story with you if not for the bravery of the Afghan Peace Volunteers who shared it with us. They pioneered the Fly Kites Not Drones campaign which has spread around the world.
A kite in the sky is a beautiful image wherever you are. Whether pieced together from bin bags and string, or manufactured with high-tech fibres, when we see a kite fly, part of us flies with it. The lives of the people holding the string can be very different, however. In Afghanistan, children are afraid of blue skies because they are the perfect weather for drones. Fly Kites Not Drones is for the children in all the countries living with that fear.
“When I was a child, this game was very important for me and my friends. When I fly kites I feel so happy and free.
I wish to fly in the sky like a kite, without borders”
- Raz, Afghan Peace Volunteers
Through the activities included, young people can learn about human rights and practise a range of key skills, but we hope that, through the creative act of making and flying a kite, they will gain an insight into the lives of their peers 3,500 miles away.
Drone warfare is controversial. It raises questions about the execution without trial, civilian deaths and endless war. Children, like adults, will have a range of opinions about it as they learn about these issues. The aim of this resource is to help young people safely explore their own questions, thoughts and feelings.
The resource is produced by a partnership of Afghan Peace Volunteers, Voices for Creative Non-violence UK, Pax Christi UK, Quaker Peace & Social Witness, and The Drone Campaign Network.Enjoy flying a kite for peace!
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