ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan
On 1 July 2026, the Preventive Diplomacy Academy (PDA) of the UNRCCA convened an online session for its 2026 cohort from Central Asia and Afghanistan on intercultural dialogue, identity and inclusive peacebuilding, featuring the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC).
The session was led by Ms. Dana Podmolikova, Programme Management Specialist for Youth at UNAOC, who oversees several global youth initiatives, including the Youth Solidarity Fund, the Young Peacebuilders Programme and the Intercultural Innovation Hub. She also serves as the focal point for inter-agency collaboration on youth and the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agenda in UNAOC.
The session introduced participants to the foundations of intercultural dialogue as an essential component of conflict prevention and peaceful coexistence. Through interactive exercises and facilitated discussions, participants reflected on the multiple dimensions of identity, the influence of culture on individual perspectives, and the importance of recognizing diversity as a source of strength rather than division. The discussion highlighted how identity is shaped by personal experiences, values, language, beliefs and social contexts, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and understanding others in promoting inclusive societies.
Participants also explored concepts such as intersectionality, implicit bias and privilege, examining how unconscious assumptions and stereotypes can influence interpersonal relations, decision-making and social inclusion. Practical exercises encouraged participants to reflect critically on their own perspectives and to consider how greater awareness can contribute to more respectful dialogue and effective cooperation across cultures.
The session further emphasized the importance of developing intercultural competencies - including active listening, adaptability, collaboration, problem-solving and effective communication – as essential skills for young peacebuilders working in increasingly diverse environments. Participants examined how these competencies contribute to strengthening trust, reducing prejudice and supporting peaceful engagement within and across communities.
An interactive component invited participants to reflect on personal values, cultural identities and perceptions through facilitated group discussions and self-reflection exercises. Participants examined how openness, curiosity and respect can help challenge stereotypes, foster mutual understanding and strengthen cooperation across cultural and national boundaries.
The session concluded with an exchange on the practical application of intercultural communication in peacebuilding initiatives, emphasizing that sustainable peace depends not only on institutions and policies, but also on the ability of individuals and communities to engage respectfully across differences. Participants discussed how the knowledge and skills acquired through the session can support their engagement in local communities and contribute to advancing the Youth, Peace and Security agenda across Central Asia and Afghanistan.
Through the Preventive Diplomacy Academy, UNRCCA continues to strengthen the capacities of young leaders by promoting dialogue, inclusive leadership and practical skills that contribute to conflict prevention, regional cooperation and sustainable peace.
