The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Gender Issues Programme with the financial support of the European Union and in close cooperation with the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek and the OSCE Academy has launched the Young Women for Peace Initiative for Central Asia.
The opening event, held on 15 April in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, marked the start of a two-year program designed to empower young women in Central Asia and enhance their involvement in peace and security processes. The participants of the program — eighteen young women change-makers from the five Central Asian countries and Afghanistan selected through a competitive process — will undergo tailored capacity-building sessions, network with peers and mentors, and receive support for cross-border projects.
Opening the event, Lara Scarpitta, OSCE Senior Advisor on Gender Issues, underscored the importance of the initiative and the profound impact of empowering young women in peacebuilding efforts. “Young women are the future of peacebuilding! Investing in them means investing in peace. Our initiative recognizes that young women face double obstacles in being both young and a woman, and takes action to empower them to play an active role in peacebuilding and conflict resolution,” she said.
Marilyn Josefson, Ambassador of the Delegation of the European Union to the Kyrgyz Republic stated: “Today’s launch highlights the vital role that youth and women have as change-making actors in our societies. Their unique perspectives, resilience and innovative ideas are essential in shaping sustainable and inclusive peace processes. Their energy, passion and fresh viewpoints also help us to challenge conventional wisdom and inspire creative solutions to age-old conflicts.”
Ambassador Alexey Rogov, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, emphasized the crucial role of young women in conflict prevention and resolution, stating that “their meaningful participation is essential for fostering peaceful and stable societies in the Central Asian region.” He stressed the importance of investing in networks and providing support to young women.
