Chui oblast, 4 October 2025 – The newly established National Agency for Religious and Inter-Ethnic Affairs under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic and its Research Center on Religious and Inter-Ethnic Issues, with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), held a two-day workshop aimed at strengthening Kyrgyzstan’s peace infrastructure and promoting inter-ethnic harmony.

As the central state body responsible for national policy in religious and inter-ethnic relations, the Agency plays a critical role in advancing the country’s long-term priorities of peace, stability, and civic unity. The workshop focused on defining the Agency’s new role and functions, strengthening the role of Public Advisory Consultative Councils in building social cohesion, and supporting the development of Kyrgyzstan’s “infrastructure for peace.”

As a new body under the President, the National Agency bears special responsibilities. On the one hand, it is tasked with coordinating activities in the religious sphere, preventing the radicalization of society, and ensuring freedom of religion. On the other hand, it is tasked with strengthening harmony in a multi-ethnic society and fostering social cohesion. This was emphasized by the leadership of the National Agency.

Particular attention was paid to teamwork, internal communications, and practical sessions on conflict sensitivity, media literacy, and hate speech. These trainings were led by experienced UNDP peacebuilding experts.

"Cooperation with UNDP helps us strengthen the Agency's capacity and build systematic work to promote social cohesion and develop peace infrastructure in the country's regions," noted Deputy Director Kanat Midin uuluu.

UNDP’s support to this initiative reflects its broader commitment to peacebuilding in Kyrgyzstan. The “infrastructure for peace” connects government institutions, civil society, and communities with the skills and resources needed to prevent disputes and resolve conflicts peacefully. For citizens, this means conflicts are addressed through dialogue, communities trust local authorities, women and youth have a stronger voice, and grassroots issues reach decision-makers directly. Trust, both among diverse groups and between citizens and the state, has become the foundation of sustainable peace.

UNDP also works with Public Consultative Councils across the country to strengthen their role as bridges between communities and government. This includes supporting new regulations, developing model work plans, and providing training and peer learning opportunities.

All efforts are aligned with the National Development Strategy of the Kyrgyz Republic 2018–2040, which identifies peace, stability, and social unity as cornerstones of the country’s long-term development. They also support the implementation of the concept of civic identity development – Kyrgyz Jarany, which prioritizes inter-ethnic harmony, inclusive participation, and lasting stability.

Through such partnerships, Kyrgyzstan is building stronger foundations for peace, empowering communities, and ensuring that every citizen feels part of a unified and inclusive future.