The European Union says it is launching a new four-year project to strengthen engagement with civil society organizations (CSOs) in Central Asia, in partnership with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), and in collaboration with the UN Resident Coordinators’ and national governments.
The project, which will be coordinated by a regional project team based in Astana, Kazakhstan, will provide Central Asian CSOs with the opportunity to exchange on common issues affecting the region, such as environmental protection, water, energy transition and climate change, youth empowerment or digitalization. Building on the success of the annual EU-Central Asia Civil Society Forums, launched in 2019, and in collaboration with the Danish Institute for Human Rights (DIHR), the project seeks to increase the participation and engagement of Central Asian CSOs in regional dialogues.
Johannes Baur, Head of Cooperation, Delegation of the European Union to Kazakhstan, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This initiative aligns perfectly with the EU’s commitment to supporting civil society in Central Asia. By enhancing the capacity of CSOs and promoting regional cooperation, we can contribute to development and knowledge exchange within the region as well as involve civil society in our main Global Gateway priorities and Team Europe Initiatives in Central Asia.”
A key component of the project will be capacity development for Central Asian CSOs. UNOPS will provide training and support to help the organizations improve their operational competencies, including their ability to comply with relevant legislation and effectively manage financial resources.
The project will also focus on engaging young leaders from Central Asia. Building on the momentum of the Young Voices of Central Asia Forum held in Samarkand in 2022, UNOPS will provide dedicated training and knowledge exchange sessions for young people, focusing on topics such as sustainable development, environmental protection, and digitalization.
