The 6th EU Civil Society Forum took place in Bishkek, gathering representatives from the civil sector, international organizations, and government structures of Central Asian countries.
Notable figures at the event included the European Commission's Special Representative in the region, Edvards Strīprais, Deputy Minister of Justice of Kyrgyzstan, Sayra Yzakova, UN Resident Coordinator in the country, Antje Grave, and the Director of the UNOPS office, Simonneto Siligatto. Participants also included representatives from international organizations such as Global Gateway, the EU Fund, EU Civil Society Facility CA, UNOPS, and the Danish Institute for Human Rights.
The forum opened with welcoming speeches discussing issues such as strengthening partnerships between the EU and Central Asia, increasing funding, supporting youth initiatives, and implementing joint projects.
During the forum, participants reviewed the current status and prospects of projects jointly implemented by the EU and Central Asia, as well as measures aimed at creating favorable conditions for youth and enhancing the influence of civil society on regional processes.
The main task of the forum was to identify key challenges and opportunities, as well as to formulate strategic priorities on various topics and develop preliminary recommendations and practical steps for the regional agenda.
The 6th EU Civil Society Forum has become an important annual platform for structured dialogue and cooperation between civil society, the European Union, and developing partners. The forum builds on the outcomes of previous sessions and the activities of regional thematic working groups covering aspects such as digital transformation, climate change, environmental protection, youth engagement, governance and corporate social responsibility, as well as women's empowerment.
The forum emphasizes the transition from dialogue to concrete regional action plans and strengthening the capacity of civil society organizations to implement sustainable changes in Central Asia.
