Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  On 27 November 2024, Tashkent hosted an international conference titled "The Role of Local Communities in Countering Population Radicalization."

The event was organized by the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in collaboration with the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Office, the UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia, and the OSCE.

The conference took place within the framework of the Regional Expert Council, established at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan. Participants included representatives from Central Asian countries, international and regional organizations such as the SCO RATS, the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund, the International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law, the NGO Search for Common Ground, the Bulan Institute, the Atlantic Initiative (Bosnia and Herzegovina), and others.

Attendees highlighted the significance of the Regional Expert Council as a vital platform for developing innovative solutions in combating terrorism.

The Council was recognized as a successful model of regional cooperation, focusing on inclusive approaches for working with returnees, designing comprehensive reintegration programs, and enhancing the skills of specialists in this field.

Particular attention was given to the role of Uzbekistan’s mahalla system, which plays an active role in fostering social harmony. Mahallas provide practical support to returnees, aiding their psychological adaptation, education, and employment. This model has been recognized by international experts as a best practice suitable for global application.

The conference also served as a platform for sharing experiences among specialists from Central Asia, the Balkans, and other regions. Experts from the Atlantic Initiative, the International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law, and the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund shared their insights and expertise.

The Regional Expert Council was noted for its effectiveness as a mechanism for cooperation among international and regional organizations in Central Asia. Participants expressed their readiness to strengthen collaboration based on principles of openness and trust, aiming to ensure regional security and sustainable development.

The conference concluded with the development of recommendations for the further advancement of the Regional Expert Council. Established in May 2024, this platform brings together experts to exchange best practices in the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals returning from conflict zones.