The Power of Poetry for Peace, Harmony, and Social Unity!

Under the framework of the project Active Women's Civil Society Organizations of Kyrgyzstan for Peace, the event Poets for Peace, Harmony, and Social Unity! will take place in the Batken region from September 18th to 20th, 2023. These poetic performances are part of the Week of Peace, a collaborative effort organized by the UN Peacebuilding Fund, UN agencies in Kyrgyzstan, state and municipal authorities, and the public.

September 21st marks the International Day of Peace, as declared by the UN General Assembly—a day dedicated to strengthening the ideals of peace by observing a 24-hour regime of non-violence and ceasefire. From September 18th to 22nd, the Kyrgyz Republic will hold a Peace Week to support peace and enhance societal harmony.

The Roza Otunbaeva Initiative Foundation has planned various events during Peace Week aimed at raising public awareness about climate change adaptation, the efficient use of natural resources, promoting unity through social cooperation, and advocating for gender equality.

Throughout Peace Week, the works of renowned poets, including Akbar Kubanychbekov (winner of the А. Osmonov Literary Competition), Nurkyz Ryskul kyzy (winner of the Ch.Tursunbekov Literary Prize and an outstanding cultural worker), Berdibek Zhamgyrchiev (a member of the National Union of Writers and winner of the State Prize named after Ch. Aitmatov), and Altynbek Ismailov (winner of the Golden Pen Prize and the TV competition 'Five Poets' of the international organization TURKSOY), will be showcased.

Young, yet already well-known Kyrgyz poets invite community residents to engage in joint creative initiatives founded on the principles of universal values: equality, unity, tolerance, and respect for the interests and needs of each community member.

Interactive quizzes will be conducted during the event, with memorable prizes for the winners. Additionally, information will be provided regarding upcoming competitions focused on climate change and adaptation, peace promotion, and gender equality.

The project Active Women's Civil Society Organizations of Kyrgyzstan for Peace is jointly implemented by UN Women, the International Public Foundation Roza Otunbaeva Initiative, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, with financial support from the Peacebuilding Fund.