Dear Guests,  

We live in a world of worry. In an era marked by uncertainty, the world grapples with multifaceted challenges, regional conflicts, healthcare, and climate issues. As these challenges connect, they worsen political polarization, social unrest, and extremism fueled further by the influence of social media, artificial intelligence, and other transformative technologies.

The digital era, rather than mitigating these concerns, often amplifies them.

Just think about that: how radically is being redefined the very essence of human interaction today, with algorithms and screens often overshadowing genuine human connection. Our smartphones, social media, and digital channels, while giving voice to the voiceless, also amplify the voices of those who wish to harm, mislead, and exploit.  
Societies across the world are increasingly intertwined in the online sphere, with some individuals and groups leveraging this growing globalized networking architecture for harm, including spreading violent extremist propaganda. The web acts as a tool for violent extremist groups to capitalize on offline grievances to fuel extremist ideologies and incite violence. 

Central Asia has not been immune to these challenges. We witness the rise of violent extremism and its spread across national borders. The youth, in search of meaning and purpose, sometimes find themselves caught in this web of radical ideology. What drives them? A lot of challenges: unemployment, limited access to quality public services, coupled with an inability to participate in social and civic life lead to the overall sense of discrimination, alienation, and exclusion.

And in this challenge lies our mission, our opportunity, and our shared responsibility.

How do we pull the youth back from this web? The answer is simple. It is education. Not merely about conventional schooling or rote learning. We're talking about a broader, more encompassing form of education—one that digs deep into the very essence of humanity and the values that have, for centuries, guided humankind.

This education should illuminate the ideals of compassion, understanding, and shared responsibility. It must instill in them a profound respect for diverse cultures, histories, and philosophies. An education that not only cherishes the past but is also attuned to the innovative, and progressive ideas shaping our world. As we stand on the crossover of a new era of global development, with challenges and opportunities unlike any we've seen before, the youth need to be equipped with the tools and knowledge that will empower them to be agents of positive change.

In this age, where screens often dominate vision and bytes often guide decisions, we must harness the vast expanse of digital channels to our advantage. Let’s turn the very platforms, sometimes misused for radicalization, into arenas of enlightenment. By understanding their digital behaviors and leveraging these platforms, we can infuse lessons on humanity, innovation, and global progress right into their daily digital interactions.

By speaking to the youth in their language, by truly listening to them, and by integrating inclusivity, we can provide an alternate narrative. One where they feel valued, included, and empowered. One where the allure of extremist ideologies pales in comparison to the promise of a harmonious, collective future.

Influencers, individuals who hold the attention of millions, can be our partners. Their voices, combined with innovative educational methods attuned to the AI age, can guide our youth, reminding them of their worth, their potential, and the myriad possibilities that await them.

UNDP Kazakhstan together with our trustful partners is striving to address the root causes, pioneering efforts that blend both local understanding and global best practices. Our apprenticeship scheme, providing job training and employment opportunities, has already impacted almost 600 young lives from remote regions of Kazakhstan. With the new initiative, launched in December 2022, we continue to prevent violent extremism among at-risk youth. We plan to expand our geographical coverage to reach a wider age group and to experiment with models that enhance the resilience of communities. We broaden our horizons with new initiatives, trying to prove that when we come together, change is not just possible—it's inevitable.

In conclusion, I would like to remember the words of the greatest philosopher and son of this land Al-Farabi, who once said, "Society coheres with love, lives with justice, and survives with honest work."
In essence, Al-Farabi reminds us of the fundamental pillars that sustain a prosperous society. As we champion the cause of enlightenment and unity, let's ensure that the youth of Kazakhstan understand the profound value of love, justice, and diligence. By instilling these virtues, we will not only protect them from the pitfalls of extremism but also pave the way for a society that thrives in harmony and fairness.