A two-day ‘OSCE Model’ event was held in Ashgabat, during which students from the country’s leading universities discussed global environmental challenges and their impact on regional security. From 13 to 14 April, lecture theatres became venues for diplomatic discussions on the climate and its consequences, according to the news agency Orient.

Participants from relevant universities practised the OSCE’s key principle – consensus-building – whilst learning to seek compromises at the intersection of economics, the environment and international interests. An international expert, joining remotely, emphasised that environmental degradation requires a combination of political experience and the energy of young people.

William Leaf, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, noted that climate change affects the political, economic-environmental and humanitarian dimensions of security. According to him, such initiatives help to shape a new generation of leaders focused on dialogue and practical solutions.

Under the guidance of trainers, the students simulated the decision-making process on climate-related case studies. The outcome of the discussions was the need for innovative and inclusive approaches to ensure sustainable environmental solutions. For the 25 participants, the project proved to be a valuable experience in the field of climate diplomacy.