Young Women for Peace Initiative

The Young Women for Peace Initiative was launched on 8 March 2023 as a pillar of the OSCE’s Networking Platform for Women Leaders including Peacebuilders and Mediators. Implemented within the WIN project, the initiative brings young women’s perspectives to the forefront of peace and security, ensuring their voices are heard and their right to participate is upheld. It provides a space for young women across the OSCE region to strengthen their leadership, expand their networks, and engage directly in peace and security processes.

The OSCE has also launched a dedicated Young Women for Peace in Central Asia edition, funded by the European Union, to support emerging leaders from all five Central Asian states and Afghanistan. Through targeted training, mentoring and regional exchange, this programme has established the first-ever regional network for young women working on peace and security in Central Asia, fostering collaboration and amplifying their contributions across the region.

The Young Women for Peace Initiative has demonstrated a clear impact on participants’ leadership and engagement in peace and security. Through collaborative projects focused on girls’ education, cross-border youth dialogue, climate action and advocacy, young women are applying their skills to address real challenges in their communities. By promoting peer learning and the exchange of best practices, the initiative has cultivated a community of motivated young peacebuilders equipped to contribute meaningfully to policy and practice.