Brussels, Belgium – As the world celebrates the United Nations-designated International Year of Peace and Trust 2025, initiated by Turkmenistan, a senior diplomat from the country has put forward an ambitious set of proposals aimed at institutionalizing the principles of peace through new international observances.
In an exclusive interview, Maral Rahymova, Second Secretary of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Belgium and the Mission to the EU, outlined a visionary roadmap of five proposed UN observances designed to promote global diplomacy, conflict prevention, dialogue, and healing.
“As the international community marks this special year, which also commemorates the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality, I find it personally compelling to contribute with proposals that can further embed peace into the international system,” Rahymova said.
Five New Observances for a More Peaceful Future
Drawing from her diplomatic experience and participation in multilateral processes, Rahymova proposed the creation of:
- World Day of Mediators and Peacemakers
- International Day of Preventive Peace
- Global Dialogue Day
- International Day of Peace Education
- International Day for the Healing of Historical Wounds
These observances, she explained, are intended to fill current gaps in the global peace agenda.
“In a world where over 120 million people are displaced by conflict and instability, we need to honor and support those who work behind the scenes to resolve disputes—whether professional mediators or community elders,” she said.
The International Day of Preventive Peace, in particular, would reinforce the often-overlooked value of early intervention and diplomacy. Rahymova cited Turkmenistan’s support for the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia in Ashgabat as an example of how proactive engagement can mitigate deeper crises.
Dialogue and Education at the Heart of Peacebuilding
Highlighting the need for social cohesion in an increasingly polarized world, Rahymova emphasized the importance of Global Dialogue Day as a platform for intergenerational and intercultural exchange.
“Dialogue is often the first casualty of conflict, but also the first step toward healing,” she noted. “A dedicated day could encourage youth-led initiatives, interfaith talks, and citizen diplomacy.”
She also stressed the transformative role of peace education in shaping future generations and aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 4 on quality education.
“Teaching nonviolence, critical thinking, and intercultural respect must be integrated into curricula to build a lasting culture of peace.”
Confronting the Past to Build a Shared Future
Rahymova’s proposal for an International Day for the Healing of Historical Wounds focuses on collective remembrance and reconciliation.
“This is not about reopening old wounds, but about acknowledging pain, fostering justice, and ensuring no community feels forgotten,” she said, pointing to the need for a universal observance that transcends specific historical events.
Looking Ahead to Ashgabat 2025
The diplomat expressed optimism for the International Forum “Peace and Trust” to be held in Ashgabat in December 2025, which she hopes will serve as a global platform to advance these ideas.
“This forum will be a defining moment. I hope these proposals resonate, not just as symbolic gestures, but as commitments that help cultivate trust for decades to come.”
As the world grapples with intensifying geopolitical rifts, Turkmenistan’s proposals reflect a forward-looking diplomatic vision rooted in neutrality, dialogue, and a belief that peace must be cultivated—not just celebrated.
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