2025: the International Year of Peace and Trust as a Pathway to Social and Economic Equity
Prepared by Maral RAHYMOVA, Second Secretary of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Belgium, Mission of Turkmenistan to the EU
In a global context of shifting priorities and shared challenges, the United Nations’ proclamation of 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust represents a profound opportunity to strengthen collaboration and promote global harmony. Leading this initiative is Turkmenistan, whose dedication to neutrality and diplomacy has played a key role in shaping its vision and goals.
Turkmenistan’s leadership in spearheading this initiative is deeply rooted in its legacy of neutrality, officially recognized by the United Nations in 1995. Over the past three decades, neutrality has defined Turkmenistan’s foreign policy, enabling it to act as a bridge between nations. This principle has also guided the country’s contributions to regional peacebuilding efforts, such as its role in establishing Central Asia as a Zone of Peace, Trust, and Cooperation. By proposing and securing the declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust, Turkmenistan has reaffirmed its belief in the power of dialogue.
The recognition of peace and trust as essential components of equity stems from their ability to bridge divides, both within and among nations. By emphasizing the importance of political dialogue, preventive diplomacy, and multilateralism, the initiative seeks to create an environment where disputes are resolved constructively, resources are shared equitably, and diverse voices are heard. This inclusive approach directly addresses the structural factors that perpetuate inequality, from economic disparities to social exclusion, and provides pathways to build more resilient societies.
The International Year underscores the interconnectedness of peace, trust, and sustainable development – a relationship that is central to Turkmenistan’s approach to global diplomacy.
Inequality, whether economic, social, or political, often stems from conflict, mistrust, and marginalization. The 2025 initiative highlights that lasting peace requires more than the mere absence of conflict; it demands a proactive commitment to addressing disparities and fostering opportunities for all.
Education plays a pivotal role in this vision. The International Year calls for investment in education as a tool to combat inequality and promote social mobility. By ensuring universal access to quality education, nations can reduce knowledge gaps and cultivate a culture of respect and reconciliation. Education also serves as a foundation for promoting tolerance and non-violence, equipping individuals with the skills to navigate differences and work collaboratively toward shared goals.
The emphasis on trust-building further reinforces the initiative’s commitment to equity. Trust is not only a cornerstone of effective governance but also a critical element in fostering inclusive economic policies. Turkmenistan’s neutrality has positioned it as a reliable partner in promoting transparency and accountability on the global stage. This approach ensures that policies address the needs of all citizens and align with the broader goals of equity and inclusion.
Turkmenistan’s alignment of the International Year with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) underscores the initiative’s transformative potential. By integrating peace and trust into efforts to reduce poverty, combat hunger, and ensure access to healthcare and clean energy, the initiative advances a comprehensive vision for equity. For example, equitable resource distribution – whether in terms of food, energy, or technology – can help bridge gaps and create opportunities for more balanced development across communities. Similarly, policies that emphasize environmental justice can ensure that all populations benefit fairly from climate action, fostering greater resilience and inclusivity in addressing global challenges.
The active participation of civil society, women, youth, and other underrepresented groups is central to the success of the International Year. These stakeholders bring diverse perspectives and innovative solutions to the table, enhancing the inclusivity and effectiveness of peacebuilding efforts. The initiative recognizes that equity cannot be achieved without the contributions of all sectors of society.
Regional stability, a hallmark of Turkmenistan’s diplomatic efforts, plays a critical role in in the pursuit of social and economic equity. The designation of Central Asia as a Zone of Peace, Trust, and Cooperation, achieved through Turkmenistan’s participation, illustrates how regional collaboration can inspire global change. These peace zones serve as models for economic integration and cultural exchange, demonstrating the tangible benefits of dialogue and cooperation. By replicating such efforts globally, the International Year can help reduce regional disparities and promote equitable development.
Preventive diplomacy, a cornerstone of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy and the 2025 initiative, is particularly effective in addressing the economic and social costs of conflict. By resolving disputes before they escalate, nations can redirect resources from military spending to education, healthcare, and infrastructure. This shift not only enhances social equity but also creates the conditions for sustainable economic growth. The emphasis on early intervention and conflict prevention aligns with the broader goal of creating systems that prioritize human dignity.
The importance of neutrality, as highlighted by Turkmenistan’s leadership in the initiative, further underscores the value of trust in advancing equity. Neutrality enables nations to act as mediators and advocates for dialogue, creating spaces where conflicting parties can come together to address shared challenges. This impartial approach reinforces the principles of fairness and equality, ensuring that solutions are guided by the collective good rather than individual agendas.
Turkmenistan’s active involvement in facilitating the International Year extends beyond its role as a proponent. By organizing key events, including the International Forum of Peace and Trust scheduled for December 2025, Turkmenistan provides a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, share best practices, and reaffirm their commitments to dialogue and cooperation. These efforts not only celebrate the nation’s achievements but also encourage other countries to embrace similar principles of neutrality and collaboration.
As the International Year unfolds, its long-term impact will depend on sustained efforts to integrate its principles into global and national policies. The initiative’s focus on education, trust-building, and preventive diplomacy offers a roadmap for reducing inequalities and fostering a culture of equity. However, its success requires the active involvement of all stakeholders – governments, international organizations, civil society, and individuals. By working together, these actors can transform the vision of the International Year into tangible progress, creating a world where peace, trust, and dialogue are not just ideals but lived realities.
The International Year of Peace and Trust 2025 is more than a symbolic observance; it is a call to meaningful action. By addressing inequality through the principles of peace and trust, the initiative paves the way for a more harmonious world, where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Maral RAHYMOVA, Second Secretary of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Belgium, Mission of Turkmenistan to the EU
Kadir Duran Bruxelles Korner and Turkmen Ambassador Sapar Palvanov, a first in Belgium
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