OSCE Centre organizes ecological summer camp for young Tajiks

KAYRAKKUM, 27 July 2006 - Young Tajik environmental activists gathered in Kayrakkum today for the opening of an ecological summer camp, organized by the OSCE Centre in Dushanbe. During the 10-day camp, the 60 participants will work together to create action plans on environmental protection.

The participants are all environmental activists dubbed "Green Patrols" because of their involvement in a project financed by the OSCE Centre and the Environment and Security Initiative partners, and implemented by the non-governmental organizations Youth of the 21st Century and Youth Group for Environmental Protection.

"Share the lessons you learn in the camp with your friends and relatives, and it will be your contribution to environmental protection," said Frank Johansen, Head of the OSCE Field Office in Khujand.

The participants also will establish a Green Youth Organization to unify Tajikistan's young Green Patrols. In addition, they will share experiences and discuss future co-operation.

"We rely on the assistance of Green Patrols in countering Tajikistan's main environmental concerns. The future is in your hands," said Rajabboy Karimov, Head of the State Environmental Protection Department in Sogd Oblast.