On November 13-15, 2024, a training session of the Regional Academy of Public-Private Dialogue for business associations of Central Asia was held in Bishkek.

The event was organized by the International Business Council (IBC) jointly with the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) in Kyrgyzstan. Representatives of more than twenty business associations from Central Asian countries - Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan took part in the training.

The aim of the meeting was to explore best practices in public-private dialogue and develop guidelines for effective cooperation in the region, strengthen the capacity of business associations in Central Asia, improve inter-regional networking and knowledge sharing, and assist in practical work through mentoring in promoting initiatives.

In addition to representatives of Kyrgyzstan’s business associations, invited speakers from large global companies and representatives of government agencies took part in the event. The experts explained why advocacy is needed and how it can help change the situation in the industry, country and region. They also informed how business associations can balance private and public interests using the tools of international organizations, and how to form a position and strategy for interaction with stakeholders.

Well-known entrepreneurs shared problem-solving mechanisms and visions of success, using the best practices of leading companies and consulting firms, introduced listeners to global trends in advocacy, and the possibilities of using artificial intelligence in the work of associations. The meeting participants also discussed issues of sustainability of business associations.

Theoretical knowledge was supplemented by real cases, how advocacy is implemented today and what difficulties the business community faces. The training program also included practical group assignments on various topics.

According to the feedback from the participants, the training was very useful and timely. Business associations from Central Asian countries have gained knowledge that will help them adapt to their capabilities and apply them in practice.