ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan
On 30 September 2026, UNRCCA Preventive Diplomacy Academy (PDA) brought together its young participants from Central Asia and Afghanistan for its first Peace Circle, providing an inclusive space for youth to exchange views, identify shared challenges and explore practical pathways towards more peaceful, inclusive and sustainable societies.
Moderated by Ms. Nataliya Chemayeva, UNRCCA Water and Youth Project Associate, and Ms. Servi Nuryyeva, UNRCCA PDA Network Coordinator, the Peace Circle centred on three areas identified as being of particular interest to young people: Gender Equality; Climate, Peace and Security; and Economy and Jobs.
The discussions demonstrated the strong interest of young participants in issues that directly affect their communities and their futures. Participants shared perspectives on institutional and social reforms, identified existing gaps and obstacles, and explored the interconnections between the different areas. The discussions underscored that progress in one area is closely linked to developments in others – from access to decent work and equal opportunities to climate resilience, social cohesion and peace and security.
The Peace Circle forms part of broader United Nations efforts to create meaningful opportunities for young people to contribute to peacebuilding and to ensure that their perspectives are heard in discussions shaping their societies. The UN’s global “Hear Us. Act Now for a Peaceful World” campaign places youth inclusion, investment and partnership at the centre of efforts to advance youth-driven solutions for peace. Peace Circles provide spaces for dialogue, peer exchange and the co-creation of practical solutions, including on issues such as climate security and gender equality.
For the UNRCCA Preventive Diplomacy Academy, the first Peace Circle offered an opportunity to bring these principles into a regional context, connecting young people from Central Asia and Afghanistan and encouraging them to reflect on shared challenges and possible areas for cooperation.
