To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the European Union's flagship programs, Border Management in Central Asia (BOMCA) and Central Asia Drug Action Programme (CADAP), Uzbekistan hosted a handicraft contest and art exhibition showcasing pieces reflecting local traditions in border regions on November 15.
The festive occasion brought together over 100 program partners and beneficiaries from all five Central Asian countries, including state institutions, international organizations, embassies, and civil society representatives.
"BOMCA and CADAP are not only flagship programs for the region but also among the longest-running programs we have implemented worldwide. These two EU initiatives represent a significant commitment to regional development and security, and as the donor, we have been closely following this journey. So, 20 years is indeed a huge milestone that deserves celebration," emphasized H.E. Charlotte Adriaen, EU Ambassador to Uzbekistan.
CADAP, which has systematically invested in drug policy development in Central Asia over the past two decades, focuses on the exchange of experiences and the introduction of international standards. The program has strengthened work not only on drug policy but also on data collection and analysis, prevention of drug use, and the treatment of people with drug disorders. CADAP has played a crucial role in building regional alliances and networks of professionals in Central Asia while fostering cooperation with EU Member States Agencies in the field of drug policy.
Ms. Maria Gonzalez, Manager of FIIAPP (International and Ibero-American Foundation for Administration and Public Policies), congratulated CADAP on its 20th anniversary and acknowledged the hard work and dedication of professionals and institutions involved in the program.
The Border Management Programme in Central Asia (BOMCA), launched by the EU in 2003, aims to support the EU-Central Asia dialogue in border security and facilitate collaboration among the five Central Asian countries for more effective border management. BOMCA has undergone thematic transformations over the years, shifting its primary focus from border management to encompass trade facilitation, migration management, and collaborative efforts in border areas.
Guntis Pujats, BOMCA 10 Project Coordinator, highlighted the current phase's focus on working closely with communities in border areas to improve local livelihoods, empower women, and address the needs of migrants involving civil society.
As both programs celebrate two decades of impactful work, they look forward to facing new challenges in the region and adapting to a changing reality in pursuit of sustainability and regional cooperation. The anniversary serves as an opportunity to reflect on achievements and look forward to a future where bi-regional cooperation can strengthen bonds between the EU and Central Asia.
BOMCA
The Border Management Programme in Central Asia (BOMCA) entered its tenth phase in April 2021, making it the largest EU-funded program in the region. With a budget of €21.6mn and a 54-month implementation period, BOMCA has been a flagship initiative since its launch in 2003.
The program's focus includes capacity building, institutional development, trade corridor development, border management system improvement, and combating drug trafficking in Central Asia. BOMCA 10 aims to enhance security and stability by promoting sustainable economic development through integrated border management. Additionally, the current phase seeks to support cross-border cooperation and improve living conditions in Central Asia's border areas.
CADAP
CADAP 6, the sixth phase of the Central Asia Drug Action Programme, operates in alignment with the EU Drug Strategy 2013-2020 and the EU Central Asia Drug Action Plan 2014-2020. Launched on April 1, 2022, with a duration of 36 months, CADAP 6 focuses on supporting drug demand aspects of a balanced drug policy.
It aims to enhance the capacity of Central Asian governments in dealing with the drug phenomenon comprehensively and sustainably. The program, implemented by a consortium of EU institutions led by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, includes activities related to policy advice, technical assistance, monitoring of the drug situation, prevention, drug treatment, and harm reduction services at both national and regional levels.
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