At the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly held in New York, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of the Republic of Uzbekistan proposed the creation of a working group under the UN to support the development of Central Asian youth. This initiative reflects the highest regard for guaranteeing and upholding the rights of the region’s young people.
On September 15, 2023, the leaders of the Central Asian countries signed the Agreement on the General Directions of Youth Policy with the goal of providing an environment for more significant youth involvement in society’s cultural, political, social, and economic life. This regional document was adopted to strengthen cooperation in youth policy.
The first plenary session was moderated by Matilda Bogner, the Regional Representative of the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for Central Asia, and Dilnozakhon Kattakhonova, Deputy Director of the Youth Affairs Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The speakers discussed the importance of human rights education in protecting and enjoying human rights and fundamental freedoms, preventing conflicts, and countering violent extremism. They also emphasized the need to develop skills in order to promote, protect, and implement human rights in everyday life.
The attendees discussed the leading role of young people in today’s society and how human rights education can help them become active and informed citizens who can stand against violent extremism. They put forth practical proposals on creating decisions and recommendations that will serve as the basis for future practical work and political initiatives in youth rights. Moreover, they highlighted the need to strengthen cooperation between governments, international organizations, civil society, and youth organizations in protecting youth rights.
The speakers also underlined the importance of involving young people in decision-making and planning processes related to their rights and interests. They suggested the implementation and development of programs and projects to ensure equal opportunities for young people, increase their potential, and improve their lives.
Nazokat Usmanova, UzA