LocationsUNDP Kazakhstan conducts educational training on youth radicalization prevention and developing emotional intelligence in law enforcement
August 23, 2024
Law enforcement personnel participating in the training sessions.
From 13 to 23 August, with support from UNDP Kazakhstan, training sessions were conducted in the regional centers—Aktau and Kyzylorda cities, focusing on preventing youth radicalization and enhancing emotional intelligence among law enforcement personnel. These efforts form a vital component of the Kazakhstani segment of a regional UNDP initiative to promote resilient communities to combat violent extremism across Central Asia. Supported by the Government of Japan, it reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding peace and security in the region.
Youth Resource Center members reviewing notes.
The training sessions brought together theologians, representatives of akimats and Youth Resource Centers (YRCs), as well as specialized law enforcement personnel in the Kyzylorda and Mangystau regions. These regions were identified as one of the areas in which the population is particularly susceptible to radicalization due to the current socio-economic conditions.
Youth to protect youth
The first phase of the training focused on preventing youth radicalization, engaging 60 participants from akimats and various YRCs across two regions. Designed to delve into the psychological profiles and motivations that drive youth toward radicalization, the sessions combined interactive presentations with practical group exercises. Participants were equipped with essential skills to identify at-risk individuals and safely interact with those susceptible to extremist ideologies.
Theologians and the representatives of akimats participating in the training sessions.
“Today's training was filled with positive energy, valuable knowledge, and engaging activities. We gained essential insights into our profession and developed the skills to implement them effectively. Special thanks to the organizers for their exceptional coordination. We eagerly anticipate the next event,”said Mustafa Kamyev, a theologian from Beyneu.
Parallel to the sessions for youth, tailored sessions were conducted for police officers from both regions. Training concentrated on the social and psychological dimensions of modern religious extremism. The participants included inspectors and representatives from departments specializing in extremism and gender-based violence, among others.
A group photo featuring law enforcement personnel.
Law enforcement personnel learned to comprehend and manage the emotional complexities of interactions with potential extremists. Among key topics were criminal profiling, operational psychodiagnostic, and communication strategies for negotiating with individuals exhibiting destructive behaviors.
“We have significantly strengthened their professional capabilities by introducing various profiling techniques and demonstrating methods to identify high-risk groups within society based on observable behavioral indicators. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical insights they’ve gained will undoubtedly prove invaluable in their work,”remarked Lola Sergeevna, an expert psychologist specializing in preventing violent extremism.
Lola Sergeevna, an expert psychologist specializing in preventing violent extremism, conducting training.
With support from UNDP, a Youth Camp at Suleyman Demirel University (SDU) in Almaty was organized as part of this project. Through this activity, over 100 NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) youth from the Kyzylorda and Mangystau regions studied entrepreneurship, financial and media literacy, digital skills, public speaking, and communications.
SDG 16: Peace, justice, and strong institutions
UNDP plays a vital role in preventing violent extremism globally by developing and implementing policies, programmes, and research in this field. Based on the UN Secretary General's Action Plan on Preventing Violent Extremism and SDG 16, UNDP has developed a comprehensive strategic framework for “Preventing Violent Extremism through Inclusive Development and Promoting Tolerance and Respect for Diversity.”
