Sixth Model OSCE takes place in Kyrgyzstan

Model OSCE is an engaging workshop where young people simulate the work of the Permanent Council by representing the OSCE participating States, and learn more about the Organization’s comprehensive model of security and its consensus-based decision-making processes.

Twenty-three young professionals and students from Central Asian countries took part in the Sixth Model OSCE from 18-23 July 2022 in Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan.

The participants stepped into the shoes of diplomats representing different OSCE participating States and learned how multilateral institutions function and how countries make decisions by consensus. They simulated the adoption of the OSCE Gender Action Plan and learned how people can influence the negotiation processes in conflict resolution.

In addition, the participants took part in a series of briefings and exercises on negotiations and diplomacy conducted by international and local experts, as well as speakers from the Parliament of the Kyrgyz Republic and diplomatic missions in Kyrgyzstan. “In these five days we empower young people with a negotiation toolbox in hope they will use these skills in creating inclusive communities," – shared Ida Manton, an expert in international negotiations.

“The OSCE’s commitment to promote the role and inclusion of youth in its peace and security agenda dates back to the Organization’s founding document, the Helsinki Final Act, in which participating States committed to furthering the development of contacts and exchanges between young people,” – said Alexander Eliseev, Head of the Politico-Military Department, OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek.

The Model OSCE is organised within the framework of the Programme Office’s efforts to empower youth’s role in enhancing peace and security in Central Asian region, strengthening democratic governance, and in close co-operation with the Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic, and the OSCE Academy in Bishkek.