An international Forum on “Empowering Youth for a Post-Colonial Future,” organized by the Baku Initiative Group, concluded in Baku.
For the first time, the forum brought together young diplomats, researchers, international law specialists, healthcare experts, representatives of pro-independence political parties and organizations, heads of youth organizations, and university students from both current and former colonies.
Participants from 17 countries took part in the event, sharing experiences and familiarizing themselves with Azerbaijan. Foreign students and researchers studying in Azerbaijani universities were also participating.
The second day of the forum opened with a flash mob performance by youth delegates.
In his remarks, Abbas Abbasov, Executive Director of the Baku Initiative Group, noted that the organization was founded in July 2023 during an international conference focused on decolonization and has since been working consistently and systematically in this field.
He noted that since 2023, the Baku Initiative Group has organized over 35 international events on colonialism, decolonization, and human rights. Abbasov further stated that since 2024, the Baku Initiative Group has been operating as a think tank, publishing three books and more than 40 analytical reports, submitting alternative reports to international bodies, and expanding cooperation with territories and over 15 countries affected by colonial and neocolonial policies.
The event was followed by a video address from Adelin Pierre, a representative of the UN Youth Office, conveying the organization’s message of support.
During the discussions moderated by Abbas Abbasov, Executive Director of the Baku Initiative Group, speakers highlighted importance of the forum in promoting experience-sharing, fostering mutual learning, and developing concrete initiatives among participants. They underscored that the future of postcolonial societies is determined not just by reflection on the past, but by empowering the next generation.
Subsequently, Professor Murat Özkaleli of ADA University moderated an interactive session on the effects of artificial intelligence on international relations and global security, along with discussions on the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Certificates were then presented to the winners of the debate contest held the day before.
The forum concluded with the adoption of a decision to launch the Global South Youth Platform.
