To promote an equitable and inclusive energy transition, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and the Global Women’s Network for the Energy Transition (GWNET) initiated a mentoring program to support women in the renewable energy sector across Central Asia.
A total of 30 women from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan took part in the program. These participants were paired with mentors from all over the world. Over eight months, these senior experts offered career guidance, networking support, and advice on overcoming challenges in a male-dominated field. Alongside mentoring, participants completed an online course covering key topics, including the importance of women in renewable energy, female leadership in the energy sector, and promoting just and equitable energy transitions. The highlight of the program for many was the study tour to Vienna, which saw selected participants attend high-level meetings, site visits, a leadership workshop, and the 5th Vienna Energy Security Dialogue, convened by OSCE and the World Energy Council (WEC).
About OSCE: The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) has a comprehensive approach to security that encompasses politico-military, economic and environmental, and human aspects. It therefore addresses a wide range of security-related concerns, including arms control, confidence- and security-building measures, human rights, national minorities, democratization, policing strategies, counter-terrorism and economic and environmental activities. All 57 participating States enjoy equal status, and decisions are taken by consensus on a politically, but not legally binding basis.