Dushanbe Hosts “Women, Peace and Security” Forum as Part of the Central Asia Women’s Dialogue

On 25 November 2025, Dushanbe, the capital of the Republic of Tajikistan, hosted the final event of the Central Asia Women’s Dialogue — the regional Forum titled “Women, Peace and Security.” Held under the chairmanship of the Republic of Tajikistan, the Forum served as an important platform for regional cooperation, experience-sharing, and collective discussions on achievements and joint solutions in the fields of peacebuilding and security.

The event brought together women leaders, representatives of government institutions, international organizations, NGOs, the academic and expert community, as well as youth initiatives from Central Asian countries. Special attention was given to the role of women peacebuilders and their contribution to sustainable peace, social stability, and security across the region. The Forum was also attended by participants from Afghanistan, while guests from Azerbaijan and Iran added a broader regional perspective, expanding dialogue beyond Central Asia.

Kazakhstan was represented by an official delegation. Lyazzat Suleimen, Deputy Chairperson of the National Commission for Women Affairs, Family and Demographic Policy under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, spoke at the panel session “Women’s Leadership in Central Asia: Achievements, Challenges, and the Role of Mediation.”

Lyazzat Suleimen highlighted:

“Advancing gender equality, ensuring inclusive participation of women in decision-making, and strengthening the institution of the family remain key pillars of Kazakhstan’s sustainable social development. We have achieved notable progress in legislation, electoral processes, and expanding women’s roles in public service. However, challenges persist — the ‘glass ceiling,’ gender stereotypes, limited access to mentorship, and informal networks of influence.”

She emphasized that building a pipeline of women leaders and expanding their political and civic engagement are national priorities. As an example, she referenced findings from the Women’s Political Ambition Index of Kazakhstan, conducted by the Public Policy Institute of the Amanat Party. The study revealed that women with higher education and higher income levels demonstrate the strongest political ambitions, while activity among women aged 18–45 forms the foundation for future female leadership.

The Forum featured panel discussions, interactive working groups, presentations of successful peacebuilding practices, and thematic networking sessions. Key topics included:
– women’s leadership in peace and security;
– cooperation between women peacebuilders and youth;
– education and entrepreneurship as tools for supporting Afghan women.

The event strengthened regional cooperation within the “Women, Peace and Security” agenda, raised awareness of women’s roles in peace and security processes, promoted best practices of women leaders, and contributed to the preparation of a joint statement and recommendations for advancing the WPS agenda.

The Forum became a significant platform for exchanging experience and developing strategies to reinforce peace and stability in Central Asia, while also highlighting Kazakhstan’s leadership in promoting women’s empowerment and supporting the next generation of women leaders in the region.