EUSR`s Opening Speech at the 6th EU – Central Asia Civil Society Forum
Excellencies, distinguished guests, dear representatives of civil society,
It is my pleasure to be here in Bishkek with you today.
Research has consistently shown that strong civil societies are one of the cornerstones of resilient and prosperous nations.
It is the sustained engagement of active citizens that transforms mere shared spaces into genuine communities.
It is people who make up countries, not the other way around.
Yet, creating lasting impact is never easy.
This Forum provides an excellent opportunity to come together to exchange experiences, build partnerships, and forge concrete ways forward.
Last year’s Civil Society Forum in Almaty marked an important step in transforming dialogue into action.
It concluded with a resolute call for sustained EU engagement with Central Asian civil society to turn strategic recommendations into practical, impactful policies.
This year’s Forum is precisely about answering that call.
Over the next two days, I expect our discussions to continue building on the solid foundation we have established, while giving flesh to these ideas in terms of practical implementation.
In this context, the five Thematic Working Groups introduced last year represent a crucial step forward.
They provide a structured way to identify key regional challenges and tackle them with precise, evidence-based recommendations.
Let me briefly touch on these five themes.
Digital transformation holds immense potential for civil society across Central Asia.
Digital tools can bridge vast geographic distances and unlock a truly regional civic space.
At the same time, challenges remain.
Ensuring equal access, raising digital literacy, and protecting cybersecurity are essential tasks to be addressed in a human-rights-based way.
Climate change is no longer an abstract concern.
In Central Asia, it is a lived reality affecting water security, agriculture, public health, and livelihoods.
Civil society plays a vital role in translating global climate commitments into local action, including through community-based adaptation.
To achieve real impact, civil society’s work must be complemented with robust policy efforts at national and regional levels.
Youth participation is central to long-term resilience.
Young people bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions, which are essential for sustainable development.
Recognising them as active stakeholders in policymaking and providing them with opportunities to influence decision-making ensures that governance is inclusive and forward-looking.
Women’s empowerment is equally critical.
Evidence consistently shows a strong link between gender equality and economic prosperity.
Women leaders contribute to more inclusive policies, and empowering women strengthens entire communities.
Civil society is essential in addressing structural barriers, promoting leadership opportunities, and ensuring equal participation across all spheres of society.
Governance and responsible business practices form the foundation of trust between citizens, institutions, and the private sector.
Freedom of expression and association are the lifeblood of a vibrant civil society.
Multi-stakeholder dialogues that bring together governments, businesses, and civil society actors generate lasting value for communities and foster transparency, accountability, and sustainable development.
Dear participants,
Before we proceed to the next session, allow me to briefly look ahead.
My colleague Andrea will shortly speak about the strategic nature of the European Union’s cooperation with Central Asia.
Charlotte will then present the priorities of the Global Gateway, the EU’s plan to invest in better connections across transport, energy, digital infrastructure, and critical raw materials and value chains.
I would like to underscore the transformative opportunity that the Global Gateway represents for sustainable and inclusive development in Central Asia.
These investments are not just about infrastructure; they are about people, opportunity, and long-term resilience.
Dear civil society representatives,
The work you do is incredibly valuable.
You are the drivers of vibrant and resilient communities.
You provide independent monitoring and thereby foster trust in public institutions.
You help ensure that investments deliver real benefits for people, protect the environment, and strengthen public confidence.
Your contribution shapes Central Asia for the better.
Improving the operating conditions for CSOs is a long-term task, and progress is gradual.
Yet, I wish to assure you that the European Union will remain by your side as a committed partner in the years to come.
I would also like to take this opportunity to highlight the new EU Civil Society Strategy, which reinforces our dedication to supporting civil society worldwide.
Civil society is indispensable for the EU because it safeguards human rights and fundamental freedoms, promotes transparency, and strengthens inclusive governance.
Our support reflects our belief that active and empowered citizens are essential partners in shaping the future of their countries and the wider region.
We have a busy and engaging programme ahead of us.
I encourage you to make the most of this opportunity to learn from each other, network, and share experiences.
I look forward to the discussions ahead and to seeing how the outcomes of this Forum can translate into concrete action that benefits all of Central Asia.
I wish you a productive and inspiring Forum.
Чоң рахмат.