OSCE supports decision makers in the Central Asian energy sector to foster women’s equal participation

The OSCE held a regional workshop on Fostering Women’s Participation in the Energy Sector in Central Asia, jointly with the Qazaq Green Renewable Energy Sources (RES) Association and with in-kind support from UNDP Kazakhstan in Astana, Kazakhstan, on 7-8 December. The event offered a platform for 30 representatives from energy ministries, industry, women’s energy associations, and academia from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan to discuss regional opportunities and challenges facing women in the energy sector.

“The energy transition cannot be achieved without women’s equal participation and leadership. This is why we are supporting policymakers and industry representatives across the region to implement tailored solutions and overcome existing barriers,” Giulia Manconi, OSCE Project Manager said.

While women’s potential as key drivers of change is increasingly being recognized, there remains much to be done to create an inclusive sector and make lasting change. “We need to create a conducive environment with corporate practices that are supportive of family and work-life balance, allowing women to be mothers without sacrificing their career ambitions,” the participants shared.

“Initiatives like this are also crucial to help women build confidence and overcome challenges instilled by gender stereotyping. This will in turn help women to achieve their full potential for success and leadership in the energy sector,” said Ainur Sospanova, CEO of the Qazaq Green RES Association.

The participants underlined their readiness to foster the implementation of measures needed to create positive change. Case studies from global and regional initiatives were explored and a number of concrete actions that could be implemented in Central Asia were identified, including:

• tailored gender action plans to be implemented across energy organizations and companies;
• workshops and training for all energy professionals, also aiming to engage more senior managers and men;
• the establishment of a regional talent pool of women in energy to foster networking and facilitate personal and professional development;
• investments in gender balanced human capital development to meet the requirements of the evolving energy sector.

The Workshop was organized within the framework of the OSCE Project on Promoting women’s economic participation in the energy sector for energy security and sustainability in Central Asia, co-funded by Austria, Germany, Italy, Norway and Poland.