Geneva (TDI): At a high-level event recently held at the UN Headquarters in Geneva, Uzbekistan shared its successful model for the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals returning from conflict zones, particularly those from North-Eastern Syria.
The event, titled “Effective Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Returnees from North-Eastern Syria – Uzbekistan’s Experience: From Global to Local”, emphasized the country’s approach, which is guided by the Regional Expert Council, established earlier this year under the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
Vladimir Voronkov, the head of the UN Counter-Terrorism Office, lauded Uzbekistan’s efforts, urging UN member states to adopt similar strategies.
He highlighted the importance of the Tashkent model, which prioritizes the rights and dignity of individuals undergoing rehabilitation.
Also Read: Uzbekistan, Germany Partner for Green Industrialization
“The Tashkent model is crucial for developing sustainable reintegration programs that ensure humane and respectful treatment of returnees,” Voronkov stated.
Khalid Koser, Director of the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund, described Uzbekistan’s approach as a potential blueprint for other countries.
He praised the model for being both effective and human-rights-centered in dealing with citizens returning from conflict zones.
The creation of the Regional Expert Council, based in Tashkent, was another focal point of the conference.
Also Read: Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan Sign Green Energy Pact
The Council aims to facilitate cooperation among Central Asian countries, sharing knowledge and developing programs to support reintegrated individuals in rebuilding their lives.
Natalia Gherman, Head of the UN Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate, expressed confidence that the Council would play a pivotal role in strengthening the exchange of best practices and fostering regional collaboration.
Uzbekistan’s regional leadership, alongside Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, in improving support systems for women and children returning from conflict zones, including Iraq and Syria, was also highlighted as part of ongoing regional efforts to address this complex issue.
