GCERF praises Uzbekistan on radicalization prevention

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Board of Directors of the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF) has praised Uzbekistan’s experience in preventing radicalization, highlighting the country’s approach to social resilience and rehabilitation programs.

The discussion took place during the 24th meeting of the GCERF Board of Directors, held on 2–3 June in Geneva, with participation from more than 40 countries represented on the Board and within the Fund’s partner network.

The meeting focused on improving the effectiveness of GCERF programs and identifying key priorities for the Fund’s future activities. A dedicated session examined evolving risks and resilience factors in Central Asia and was moderated by Bakhtiyor Mustafaev, Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan.

Participants discussed changing patterns of contemporary threats, increasingly affecting the social sphere and requiring comprehensive preventive approaches. The meeting noted that regional states are facing new challenges linked to shifting migration routes and the spread of extremist ideologies through digital platforms.

Against this backdrop, participants emphasized the importance of preventive work aimed at strengthening social cohesion, supporting vulnerable groups, and countering radicalization risks.

Particular attention was given to Uzbekistan’s experience in this field. Board members highly evaluated the country’s system of measures aimed at reducing vulnerability factors and providing targeted support to individuals at risk.

Uzbekistan’s rehabilitation and reintegration system for repatriates also received wide recognition from participants, who described it as one of the most successful regional practices of its kind.

Experts highlighted the cooperation between ISMI and GCERF as an important component of ongoing efforts to prevent radicalization. According to Mustafaev, significant progress has been made since the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in 2024, including the establishment of a country support mechanism, the development of a GCERF investment strategy for Uzbekistan, and the launch of funding for local NGO-led projects.

Current initiatives supported by the Fund include projects implemented by the NGOs “Barkaror Hayot” and “Istikbolli Avlod”, as well as the Republican Center for Social Adaptation of Children. These programs focus on strengthening local communities, supporting at-risk families, developing youth potential, and improving digital literacy.

Practical outcomes include the creation of child development centers and sports facilities, the launch of “Start to Profession” and “Legal Clinic” laboratories, and small business support programs.

Special emphasis has been placed on the Youth Digital Resilience initiative, which aims to establish a media center to develop critical thinking skills and responsible information consumption among young people.

Participants concluded by reaffirming their interest in expanding cooperation with Uzbekistan and expressed readiness to develop further joint initiatives in the areas of radicalization prevention, social integration, and strengthening community resilience.