Since February 2024, DVV International and its local partners – the NGO Mehrjon (Uzbekistan), the NGO Youth of Osh (Kyrgyzstan), and the NGO Saodat (Tajikistan) – have been implementing the project “TogetheR Unite efforts for regional StabiliTy (TRUST)” in the Fergana Valley. The project set out to address persistent tensions in the region by strengthening local civil society organisations and promoting peace through adult education, dialogue, and cross-border cooperation. On December 11–12, 2025, around 70 participants gathered in Fergana for the final forum.
Shared by Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, the Fergana Valley is one of Central Asia’s most densely populated regions, home to over 17 million people. Despite state borders, the region remains closely connected through shared history, traditions, and economic ties. At the same time, recent years have seen tensions and conflicts, particularly in border areas. The TRUST project responds to these challenges by recognising that strong local NGOs and informed, engaged adults are key actors in preventing conflict and promoting peaceful coexistence.
The role of adult learning and education in conflict prevention
The project focused on empowering local actors to analyse conflicts, assess local needs, engage communities, and facilitate dialogue themselves. During the project duration, six local advisory groups were established; 12 specialised trainings took place; six field and risk assessments were conducted, and 24 community and cross-border initiatives were implemented. Moreover, peace dialogue was fostered through two cross-border camps, the “Unity in Diversity” competition, and 18 mobile exhibitions. The project showed that adults – when given the space to learn, reflect, and exchange – can become agents of peaceful change in their own environments.
Final forum to reflect on achievements
The final forum brought together representatives of civil society, government agencies, experts, media and youth representatives from all three countries. Participants shared experiences and showcased successful peacebuilding practices, e.g. from the 24 local initiatives which demonstrated how empowered citizens and NGOs can translate learning into concrete peacebuilding actions. Thematic sessions addressed the role of media in peacebuilding, promoting tolerance, and strengthening cooperation between civil society and state institutions.
Looking ahead: Joint commitment to lasting peace
The outcomes of the TRUST project underline the importance of investing in strong local civil society and adult learning as foundations for long-term stability. As Aizhan Satimbay qizi, local coordinator from NGO Youth of Osh, stated:
Friendship between the three countries is necessary for all of us. Our joint efforts have already yielded results, and our goal is to strengthen peace and friendship between our peoples further.
The forum concluded with an outlook of optimism, as local NGOs and initiatives pledged to continue their work beyond the project’s lifespan. The forum organisers expressed hope that the end of the project marked the beginning of many more initiatives focused on creating a lasting culture of peace in the Fergana Valley.
The project was supported by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.