ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan

On 22 April, the UNRCCA in cooperation with the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), hosted an engaging online session of the UNRCCA Preventive Diplomacy Academy (PDA). The event gathered young participants from across the region to deepen their understanding of the United Nations system and its preventive diplomacy efforts.

This session formed part of the 2025 PDA programme and featured presentations by Andriy Larin, Political Affairs Officer at UNRCCA, and Dr. Augustine M. Sowa, Civil Affairs Officer at UNAMA and the mission’s focal point for youth engagement. Ms. Zohra Zuhoori, Associate Political Affairs Officer and National UN Volunteer with UNAMA, also joined the discussion.

Participants explored the origins and evolution of the United Nations, starting with a historical overview of the League of Nations. Mr. Larin traced the UN's foundational moments—from the Atlantic Charter and the 1942 “Declaration by the United Nations,” to the San Francisco Conference in 1945—highlighting the global determination to prevent future conflict and build a durable peace.

In his remarks, Mr. Larin emphasized the unique mandate of UNRCCA in promoting regional dialogue, enhancing cooperation on transboundary issues, and supporting the role of preventive diplomacy in Central Asia. He outlined the Centre’s Programme of Action for 2021-2025 and its strategic initiatives aimed at fostering long-term peace and stability.

Dr. Sowa presented on UNAMA’s political mandate, underscoring the challenges and consequences of Afghanistan’s prolonged conflict and the broader regional implications. He elaborated on UNAMA’s efforts to engage Afghan youth and civil society in peacebuilding, noting that the path to sustainable peace lies in inclusive dialogue and active community participation.

The session concluded with a vibrant Q&A segment, where participants inquired about the prospects for UN reform, the effectiveness of Special Political Missions (SPMs) like UNRCCA and UNAMA in resolving conflicts, and the UN’s role in addressing escalating tensions in regions such as Europe and the Middle East.

The PDA’s session reaffirmed the importance of history-informed dialogue and the role of young leaders in shaping a more peaceful future.