WPA Experts Propose Creation of CIS Youth Belt to Build a Conscious Generation

MOSCOW, September 21, 2025

Experts at the First World Public Assembly (WPA) have called for the creation of a CIS Youth Belt, a symbolic platform that will unite youth organizations and activists from Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. The proposal was one of the key outcomes of the panel session “The Commonwealth of Independent States: Conscious Unity.”

Representatives from Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan emphasized the continued importance of the CIS as a school of sovereignty and diplomacy for post-Soviet states.

“There are many publications that try to belittle the importance of the CIS,” said Saidmukhtar Saidkasimov, Chairman of the Public Council of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan. “Yes, many CIS members are also in the SCO, but the historical significance of the Commonwealth cannot be downplayed — especially its huge role in the peaceful ‘divorce’ of the fifteen former republics of the USSR.”

Eduard Sharmazanov, Chairman of the Political Commission of the Republican Party of Armenia, added that the CIS must continue to defend shared values:

“Our peoples defeated Nazism together, therefore our task is to resist its modern manifestation. This is now the landmark mission of the CIS.”

Speakers highlighted the importance of culture and language in strengthening ties across the region. Kyrgyz MP Khanjeza Karim stressed that preserving historical memory is vital for building future cooperation:

“Together we can present the CIS as a symbol of friendship and unity of peoples. Culture is a universal language that means a lot in the long run.”

The platform participants adopted a resolution proposing concrete steps, including:

• Supporting education, culture, youth policy, and creative industries

• Protecting cultural heritage

• Developing joint media projects to counter disinformation

• Creating platforms for scientific and expert dialogue

• Encouraging humanitarian and educational initiatives such as forums, festivals, and research projects

The most significant proposal was the creation of a symbolic CIS Youth Belt under the auspices of the WPA. This platform will facilitate regular mutual visits, joint cultural exchanges, and leadership programs to strengthen ties among young people and form a generation focused on cooperation and peacebuilding.

“Conscious unity is not just a concept — it is a practical necessity,” the participants concluded. “Mutual support, open dialogue, and respect for identity are the foundations of a strong and sustainable Community.”