A nine-day training course on ‘Psychological Aspects of Preventing Various Forms of Extremism’ has started in Turkmenistan. The event is organised as part of the country component of the UNDP regional project on countering violent extremism in Central Asia, with support from the Government of Japan. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan.

The training aims to develop skills in psychosocial support, mental health and critical thinking. It is attended by representatives of government agencies, universities, NGOs, as well as psychologists and coaches.

The programme includes practical methods such as case studies, discussions and storytelling, and covers topics such as target audience analysis, evaluation of preventive materials and resilience to manipulation. Particular attention is paid to human rights, humanistic values and gender sensitivity.

The initiative contributes to strengthening Turkmenistan's capacity to prevent violent extremism and build resilient communities.