LocationsCentral Asia joins forces with Japan and UNDP to prevent violent extremism: "Youth for Resilience in Central Asia" Forum kicks off in Almaty
October 28, 2024
Almaty, 28 October 2024 - The "Youth for Resilience in Central Asia" Forum commenced today in Almaty, focusing on strategies to prevent violent extremism in the region. The event gathered participants from all five Central Asian states, including government officials, religious leaders, creatives, and youth, fostering constructive dialogue. Organized under the auspices of a regional initiative by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and supported by funding from the Government of Japan, the Forum aims to promote resilient communities as a means of combating violent extremism in Central Asia.
“In 2022, to strengthen regional efforts in countering violent extremism, UNDP launched the second phase of its regional initiative to promote resilient communities and prevent violent extremism across Central Asia. By addressing the root causes of extremism and focusing on at-risk youth, the initiative aims to build a more inclusive society where every young person feels valued and empowered to contribute to their community's sustainable development”,stated Katarzyna Wawiernia, UNDP Resident Representative in Kazakhstan.
The rise of violent extremism continues to pose a severe threat to Central Asia, jeopardizing decades of development. Poverty, inequality, lack of access to public services, and limited personal development opportunities are all factors that make young people vulnerable to radicalization.
“The Government of Japan views efforts to prevent violent extremism in Central Asia as an important form of cooperation within the framework of the “Central Asia plus Japan” dialogue. We are honored that the project “Strengthening Community Resilience and Regional Cooperation to Prevent Violent Extremism in Central Asia,” which we supported in 2018, has achieved its results. I am glad that Phase 2 of this project is also progressing successfully and hope that this project will achieve maximum results with the active cooperation of relevant organizations in the region”,noted Kanata Tomohiro, Deputy Head of Mission and Counsellor at the Embassy of Japan in Kazakhstan.
The "Youth for Resilience in Central Asia" Forum offered a platform for addressing challenges through youth empowerment, emphasizing the importance of upskilling and reskilling initiatives. Although the specific circumstances differ across the region, all Central Asian nations confront common obstacles, such as socio-economic instability and the spread of radical ideologies.
The main session at the forum concentrated on youth employment as an important strategy for preventing violent extremism, bringing together representatives from various ministries across Central Asia. The discussions at the Forum also explored the significant role of religious leaders and communities in steering youth away from radicalization. Additionally, the forum highlighted how NGOs and the private sector can nurture youth entrepreneurship and employment, equipping young people with essential skills for sustainable careers and resilience.
UNDP continues to play a leading role in preventing violent extremism worldwide by developing and implementing policies and programmes based on the UN Secretary-General’s Action Plan on Preventing Violent Extremism and SDG 16. Through its strategic framework, "Preventing Violent Extremism through Inclusive Development and Promoting Tolerance and Respect for Diversity," UNDP supports countries in building resilient, peaceful societies.
