Youth Leaders Explore Water Diplomacy through Simulation Game

Youth Leaders Explore Water Diplomacy through Simulation Game

In a collaborative effort to engage Central Asian youth in water diplomacy and sustainable resource management, the USAID Central Asia's Regional Water and Vulnerable Environment Activity, in partnership with the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) and the UNRCCA Preventive Diplomacy Academy (PDA), organized the Nexus simulation game session.

The event was held on April 29, 2024 at the Archabil hotel and gathered participants from the Preventive Diplomacy Academy (PDA) 2024 cohort alongside alumni from higher education institutions of Turkmenistan, including the International University for the Humanities and Development (IUHD), the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan (IIRMFA), and the Turkmen State Institute of Architecture and Construction (TSIAC).

Representatives from IUHD made a notable impact during the session, with individuals like Abdyleziz Saryyev, Novruz Nurberdiyev, Servi Nuryyeva, Enejan Achylova, Aziza Tashliyeva, Kemal Annagurbanov, and Maral Allaberdiyeva engaging enthusiastically in the immersive learning experience.

The Nexus simulation game serves as an innovative training tool designed to explore the complex challenges of water management in the context of energy and food production processes. During the session, organizers underlined the importance of such simulations in developing practical skills in preventive diplomacy, and educating the activists and professional workers in the environmental sphere.

Participants assumed various roles mirroring real-world scenarios, navigating diplomatic challenges associated with water, energy, and food security. The game simulated situations ranging from trade disruptions and agricultural crises to water scarcity and environmental threats, offering a hands-on experience in navigating complex interconnected issues. Reflecting on the simulation, participants expressed appreciation for the practical experience gained and proposed the idea of a regional Nexus simulation involving youth activists from all Central Asian nations.

The successful session underscored the importance of such interactive platforms in nurturing practical skills in preventive diplomacy and enhancing understanding of the interplay between environmental sustainability and regional cooperation. It also highlighted the enthusiasm among young leaders to drive positive change and foster collaborative efforts toward sustainable development in Central Asia.

Shagadam BAYRAMDURDYYEV,

Instructor of International Relations department of the

International University for the Humanities and Development