Contribution to the OSCE Academy in Bishkek


In Central Asia, the OSCE Academy offers a unique platform to train the youth in governance, economic policy, and security topics, as well as to foster open and constructive debate on regional security, development, and interconnectedness. This Swiss contribution will support the Academy in becoming and staying a leading institution for higher education and research, offering graduate and postgraduate programs that are supported by and connected to various research projects.

Región/País Tema Período Presupuesto
Asia Central
Governance
Educación
Conflito y fragilidad
Participación democrática y sociedad civil
Enseñanza superior
Prevención de los conflictos
01.01.2022 - 31.12.2028
CHF  1’000’000
Contexto Central Asia is undergoing significant geopolitical shifts and faces uncertainty in Western donor contributions. In this environment, maintaining robust support for education, research, with a regional perspective remains crucial. Switzerland has been a and will remain a steadfast partner in this endeavour.
Objetivos

The objective is to strengthen the OSCE Academy as a regional institution, equipping young professionals from Central Asia with high-quality education and training. As a higher education and research institution, the Academy will equip them to contribute meaningfully to regional security, stability, and development.

Switzerland’s support for the OSCE Academy – a flagship OSCE project – will strengthen its 2026 Chairmanship, increase its political leverage, and highlight its longstanding commitment to the region.

Grupos destinarios Up to 1,000 young students, alumni, and academics – both female and male – from Central Asia, Mongolia, and Afghanistan.
Efectos a medio plazo

The Academy evolves into a fully-fledged higher education and research institution.

1. The Academy’s learning environment is enhanced through enhanced MA programmes and increased students’ competitiveness on the job market.

2. The Academy’s research and dialogue pillar has established itself as a regional knowledge hub for advanced studies on Central Asia.

3. The Academy’s Alumni Network is strengthened, fostering greater professional integration opportunities.

Resultados

Resultados de las fases anteriores:  

As of February 2025, the number of graduates has reached 708 (~52% women, ~48% men), with 74% working in their home country. 79% of these are employed, with 30% holding senior positions in government agencies, international organizations, NGOs, and other relevant sectors.

In the latest project phase, the Academy expanded its academic offerings, launching a new BA in Economics and a MA in Human Rights and Sustainability. Additionally, its MA programs were extended to 18 months.

A defining feature of the OSCE Academy is its competitive scholarship program, which makes highquality education accessible and affordable for talented students across Central Asia, Mongolia and Afghanistan.


Dirección / Officina Federal responsable COSUDE
Contrapartes del proyecto Contraparte del contrato
Otra organización internacional
  • Organización para la Seguridad y la Cooperación en Europa
  • Contribution to the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, which supervises the work of the OSCE Academy and reports to the donors.


Coordinación con otros proyectos y actores

At Vienna & Geneva level, coordination is maintained with the Board of Trustees, including the Swiss Mission to the OSCE and the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP). 

In Bishkek, synergies with UN agencies (e.g., OHCHR on the new MA in Human Rights, or with the University of Central Asia). More can still be done in topics such as governance and water management.

Presupuesto Fase en curso Presupuesto suizo CHF    1’000’000 Presupuesto actual suizo ya emitido CHF    654’750 Presupuesto inclusive contrapartes del proyecto CHF    6’437’756 Total del proyecto desde la primera fase Presupuesto suizo CHF   750’000 Presupuesto inclusive contrapartes del proyecto CHF   2’750’000
Fases del proyecto Fase 2 15.08.2025 - 31.12.2028   (Fase en curso)

Fase 1 01.01.2022 - 31.05.2025   (Active)