Youth engagement in peacebuilding: arts-based approaches in Kyrgyzstan

Anara Eginalieva, Tazhykan Shabdanova, ANNA SMIRNOVA

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the engagement of youth in peacebuilding in Kyrgyzstan by researching and exploring local conflict issues affecting their well-being and bringing these issues to the attention of decision-makers and adults. The chapter describes how Mobile Arts for Peace (MAP) in Kyrgyzstan engaged young boys and girls between the ages of 14 and 18 years from different ethnic and social backgrounds to develop arts-based processes to build dialogue with peers and adults using different cultural forms, integrating ethno-cultural heritage such as the famous epic poem Epos Manas. The main reason for choosing this age group was that it is an underrepresented age bracket in research within ODA countries. Another reason was to have the chance to work with children and young people so that they are able to become active citizens, participating in decision-making at the community level about youth welfare and being heard in their families and communities. An arts-based approach to peacebuilding has been used to unlock the potential of a young generation who are growing in a traditional and conservative society and to increase their confidence in holding dialogue with adults about issues of concern. The chapter describes key stages, expected and achieved outcomes, as well as best practices and lessons learnt throughout the MAP study.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationChildren, Youth and Participatory Arts for Peacebuilding
Subtitle of host publicationLessons from Kyrgyzstan, Rwanda, Indonesia and Nepal
EditorsAnanda Breed, Helena-Ulrike Marambio, Kirrily Pells, Rajib Timalsina
PublisherRoutledge Taylor & Francis Group
Chapter4
Pages66-97
Number of pages32
ISBN (Electronic)9781003230038
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 14 Jun 2024

Keywords

  • Arts
  • behavioural sciences
  • global development
  • politics and international relations
  • social sciences

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Youth engagement in peacebuilding: arts-based approaches in Kyrgyzstan'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this