The European Union (EU) has announced the launch of a new four-year project aimed at enhancing engagement with civil society organizations (CSOs) in Central Asia. This initiative, created in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and in conjunction with UN Resident Coordinators and national governments, aims to strengthen and empower civil society organizations (CSOs) throughout the region.
Led by a regional project team located in Astana, Kazakhstan, the project will promote discussions on critical regional challenges, such as environmental protection, water management, energy transition, climate change, youth empowerment, and digitalization. This initiative builds on the achievements of the annual EU-Central Asia Civil Society Forums, which began in 2019, and will also partner with the Danish Institute for Human Rights (DIHR).
Johannes Baur, Head of Cooperation at the Delegation of the European Union to Kazakhstan, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative.
"This project 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 while involving civil society in our main Global Gateway priorities and Team Europe Initiatives in Central Asia," he stated.
A significant aspect of the project will be the capacity development of Central Asian CSOs. UNOPS will provide essential training and support to help these organizations improve their operational competencies, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and effective financial management.
Freya von Groote, Director of the UNOPS Austria Multi-Country Office, highlighted UNOPS's vital role in the project, stating, "UNOPS is honored to partner with the EU on this initiative. Strengthening the operational capacities of CSOs and providing a platform for technical exchanges across the region will help generate solutions to the challenges and opportunities identified across Central Asia."
In addition to organizational development, the project will focus on engaging young leaders in Central Asia. Leveraging the success of the Young Voices of Central Asia Forum held in Samarkand in 2022, UNOPS will provide specialized training and knowledge-sharing sessions for youth, focusing on sustainable development, environmental protection, and digitalization.
UNOPS is committed to helping people build better lives and supporting countries in achieving peace and sustainable development. The organization collaborates with the United Nations, governmental bodies, and various stakeholders to effectively manage projects and provide sustainable infrastructure and procurement services.
Founded in 2019, the UNOPS Austria Multi-Country Office (AUMCO) acts as a regional center for UNOPS programs and operations in 12 countries, which encompass Central Asia, the Western Balkans, the South Caucasus, and Türkiye. The office in Vienna also oversees the Water Environment and Climate Portfolio, managing global initiatives related to climate, transboundary water management, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability.
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