UN Peacebuilding Fund Joint Steering Committee Reviews Ongoing and New Projects in the Kyrgyz Republic

Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic - The Joint Steering Committee (JSC) of the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (UN PBF) held its meeting today, co-chaired by the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Ms. Antje Grawe, and the Head of the Department for Political and Economic Research of the Presidential Administration, Mr. Almas Isanov. The JSC, composed of government representatives, UN, development partners, and civil society, provides crucial oversight for UN PBF peacebuilding and social cohesion projects in the Kyrgyz Republic.

Since 2010, the UN PBF has allocated a total of $56 million to support peace initiatives in the country. The current phase of UN PBF's work for the period of 2021-2026, based on the request of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Japarov, focuses on promoting transparent governance, inclusive civic identity, and trust and cooperation between border communities.

At the meeting, progress was presented on three projects with a total budget of $5.1 million. Discussions were also held on two additional projects with a total budget of $3.9 million, aimed at promoting local peace initiatives, including those led by women and closer partnerships between government and civil society at local level.

The UN Resident Coordinator emphasized the importance of building trust at all levels and reminded attendees that UN PBF projects aim to foster a culture of peace in society whilst building capacities and providing platforms for peaceful resolution of differences. The Head of the Department for Political and Economic Research of the Presidential Administration, Mr. Almas Isanov, underlined the importance of further preserving and strengthening tolerance and inclusivity in the country as prerequisites for peace and economic prosperity. 

The Joint Steering Committee plays a critical role in ensuring accountability and sustainability of UN PBF-supported initiatives in the Kyrgyz Republic. These initiatives will continue to support peace and social cohesion efforts.

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