United Nations in Turkmenistan

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Turkmenistan:

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Press Release

26 February 2026

Hard Talk on Expanding Social Services at the Community (Etrap) Level

The discussion focused on advancing the implementation of the Law of Turkmenistan on Social Services (2021) while aligning with the Government’s socioeconomic development priorities for 2022–2028. Participants reviewed progress achieved since 2021—including the piloting of new community-based service models, the introduction of social work education programmes, and the establishment of social worker positions—and explored the ways for nationwide scale-up by 2035.“This Hard Talk demonstrates Turkmenistan’s commitment to ensuring that every family, in every community, has access to quality social services,” said Mr. Dmytro Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan. “The transition from pilots to sustainable, institutionalized social services is essential for advancing the SDGs, strengthening resilience, and promoting equity. The UN stands ready to continue supporting strategic planning, workforce development, and costed expansion to ensure no one is left behind.”The participants reviewed proposed plans for increase of community-based social workers, strengthening training and retraining programs of social work specialists and social work financing issues. Discussions highlighted the need to establish dedicated social service structures at velayat and etrap levels, strengthen pre-service and in-service workforce training, improve supervision and retention, and promote integrated approaches across social protection, child protection, disability services, education, and employment sectors. Participants also explored opportunities for mobilizing innovative financing—including international financial institutions—to support long-term expansion of community-based services. “Turkmenistan has laid a solid foundation for a modern social services system rooted in national values and international standards,” said Ms. Jalpa Ratna, UNICEF Representative in Turkmenistan. “Evidence clearly shows that community-based services are transformative for children and families—especially the most vulnerable. UNICEF remains fully committed to supporting the Government in scaling up high-quality social services to every etrap, ensuring that families receive the timely, professional support they need.” The Hard Talk concluded with agreement on priority next steps, including preparation of recommendations for review by the Government of Turkmenistan, the development of a Social Workforce Expansion Plan 2027–2035, further legal amendments to legislation and development of by-laws to strengthen specialized social services, and continued intersectoral coordination to ensure the coherent expansion of family and community-based support systems throughout Turkmenistan.

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Press Release

25 February 2026

Turkmenistan and the United Nations Review 2025 Progress and Endorse Priorities for 2026

Co‑chaired by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, the meeting gathered senior representatives of national ministries and UN agencies. Participants reviewed achievements across governance and human rights, economic diversification, climate resilience, and the delivery of quality health, education, and social protection services. Presentations by the Results Groups Co-Chairs highlighted key accomplishments from 2025 and outlined priority interventions for 2026. Discussions also focused on the global UN system funding trends, the Funding Compact priorities, the UN Country Analysis update, Joint Programmes, and the Cooperation Framework’s Financing Plan and Resource Mobilization Strategy (2026–2030) as well as strengthening reporting on SDG indicators. In addition, Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko, the UN Resident Coordinator, emphasized the growing importance of expert dialogues grounded in the regular UN Country Analysis. He underlined that such “Hard Talk” dialogues allow for deeper discussion of pressing issues in strategic development areas. It was suggested to hold another Hard Talk on energy futures scenarios backed with the foresight evidence developed by UNCT. The updated Country Analysis, he noted, was prepared using a new horizon scanning approach aligned with the UN Secretary General’s UN 2.0 agenda — enabling earlier identification of risks and opportunities and allowing joint programmes and financing to be more precisely targeted toward priority SDG transformations.The Steering Committee endorsed the Governance and Coordination mechanisms for the new Cooperation Framework, 2026 Joint Work Plans, the Cooperation Framework Multi-Year Funding Framework, and the CF Resource Mobilization and Partnerships Strategy for 2026–2030. Members also emphasized the importance of strong national cofinancing and sustained collaboration across Results Groups and agreed to further improve reporting to better monitor national progress towards SDGs. The United Nations Country Team reaffirmed its continued support to Turkmenistan in implementing national development priorities, strengthening resilience, expanding quality services, advancing rights-based approaches, and accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.

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Press Release

20 February 2026

Turkmenistan and the United Nations Hold Hard Talk on Accelerating Access to Pre-Primary Education

“Early learning equips children with the skills necessary for successful education, wellbeing, and productivity throughout their lives, strengthening both society and the economy. Today’s open dialogue is an opportunity to work together with the United Nations to define concrete steps to ensure universal access to pre-primary education in Turkmenistan by 2030 in a alignment with Turkmenistan’s Education Law, which mandates one academic year of free, compulsory preparation for primary school. By providing a strong foundation for learning and wellbeing, pre-primary education becomes a strategic investment with long-term benefits for future generations and for the country’s economy,” noted Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, opening the meeting.Despite the notable progress — including universal access to primary education and a significant expansion of preschool facilities — national data highlights key challenges. Participation in organized learning one year before primary school (SDG indicator 4.2.2) has decreased from 50% in 2019 to 44.4% in 2024, with substantial disparities between urban (70.7%) and rural (24.9%) areas, and between the richest (84.8%) and poorest (20.5%) households. The lowest participation levels were observed in Mary, Dashoguz, and Ahal provinces. These gaps affect children’s school readiness, literacy, numeracy, and socio-emotional development, with long-term implications for educational achievement and human capital formation, emotional development, with long-term implications for educational achievement and human capital formation. “Turkmenistan’s education reforms have already created strong momentum. The next strategic step is to ensure that every child starts primary school ready to succeed. Providing at least one year of compulsory, fee-free pre-primary preparation education for all five-year-olds is therefore not an expansion of the system — it is its completion”, noted Ms. Jalpa Ratna, UNICEF RepresentativeThe Hard Talk aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2026–2030), particularly its priority on equitable social development and wellbeing. Participants emphasized that expanding access to quality pre-primary education and ensuring sustainable financing for this initiative are essential for achieving SDG Target 4.2. UNICEF and the Ministry of Education presented evidence demonstrating the strong developmental and economic returns of early childhood education, noting that half-day, fee-free pre-primary programmes are both cost-effective and aligned with international standards (600 hours annually). These models were identified as optimal approaches to support a nationwide scale up.The Ministry of Education confirmed to launch 65 pilot groups across 55 schools for a one-year, half-day, fee-free pre-primary preparation programme starting in September 2026. The pilot will inform a national roadmap for gradual scaleup beginning in 2027, with the objective of achieving universal access by 2030.Participants also reviewed progress and next steps on the parenting support programme, which aims to strengthen families’ capacity to support early learning and child development. Integration of this programme at the systems level is expected to reinforce efforts to improve early childhood outcomes nationwide.

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Press Release

18 February 2026

UNDP and UNEP Support Turkmenistan in Strengthening Climate Reporting

The event brought together representatives from government agencies, as well as international and civil society organizations. During the meeting, participants reviewed the preparation of the document and discussed next steps for its official submission to the UNFCCC Secretariat.NC4 includes updated data on greenhouse gas emissions, an overview of mitigation measures, emission projections, and priority needs for financing and capacity-building, including the development of a national monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) system. The report also highlights Turkmenistan’s progress in adopting modern technologies, expanding the use of renewable energy, and improving energy efficiency.“The preparation of the Fourth National Communication demonstrates Turkmenistan’s commitment to international climate obligations and transparency principles. UNDP, together with partners, supports the country in strengthening its climate reporting system and implementing national priorities for low-carbon development,” said Mr. Farhat Orunov, Programme Analyst of the UNDP Environmental Portfolio in Turkmenistan. The Fourth National Communication was prepared by the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan with technical support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and UNDP, and financial support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The document reflects the country’s progress in fulfilling its international climate obligations and implementing the Paris Agreement.NC4 was prepared in parallel with the First Biennial Update Report (BUR1) and the First Biennial Transparency Report (BTR1), also with the support of UNDP and UNEP, ensuring a coordinated and systematic approach to climate reporting. The documents provide transparent information on greenhouse gas emissions from 2010–2021, applying the updated methodology of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC, 2006).

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Story

04 March 2026

A Second Chance for Maksat: From a Street Fight to a New Start

Disclaimer: For the purposes of confidentiality, all names referenced herein have been changed.When Maksat was taken to the juvenile department after a street fight, it could have been the beginning of a long road of trouble. Like many children who find themselves in trouble with the law, Maksat wasn't "spoiled" - he simply grew up without support, in a family overwhelmed by difficulties.At home, Maksat's mother worked long hours to support the family, and his father, unsettled by employment and alcohol abuse, became increasingly distant. Maksat and his older brother spent most of their time outdoors, and strolling, minor misbehaviors, and begging passersby for money became a norm. One day, an argument escalated into a fight—and the boy came to the attention of the police.But instead of punishment, Maksat received something much more important - a chance.From police registration to a support planAfter registering with the inspectorate, Maksat was included in the diversion program - a system that allows children to avoid formal criminal prosecution, receiving in return support, mentoring, and specialist assistance.An interdepartmental team — a juvenile affairs inspector, psychologist, and social worker - joined forces to support him and his family, aware that a difficult journey lay ahead.The inspector became a mentor to the boy, meeting regularly to discuss his behavior and help him set realistic goals. The psychologist helped Maksat understand his feelings, taught him to control his anger, and express his emotions verbally rather than through actions. The social worker worked closely with the parents to restore stability at home and navigate daily challenges, including administrative tasks and finding temporary work.The Family Resource Assessment (FRA) was a critical turning point. Instead of focusing on failures, the FRA revealed hidden strengths. This revelation was powerful. It shifted the family's narrative from "we are the problem" to "we have strengths we've forgotten."Heal the family to help the childThe changes didn't happen immediately. During joint meetings, Maksat's mother admitted for the first time that she hadn't realized how much her absence was impacting her son. Family therapy with the family helped her consider finding a job with a flexible schedule so she could spend more time with the children. After several months of counseling, the father found temporary work and became more involved in the family's life. Gradually, the home became filled with trust and warmth.Maksat gradually started to change. He stopped fighting and skipping school. Teachers noticed that the boy had become calmer and more focused, and he showed an aptitude for computer science and foreign languages.His family’s struggles may not vanish overnight. Yet the boy once known for street fights and truancy is now charting a new path.He began attending school more regularly, not because he was forced to, but because he could express himself there. Helping his mother was no longer just a duty, but an act of love.Maksat’s story does not end with a dramatic finale, but with a new beginning. He now sees more opportunities in life, while the team of specialists continues supporting Maksat and his family to help make their life better. What do diversion measures provide?Maksat.'s story demonstrates that diversion of juveniles from formal justice is a powerful tool for re-education through support and restoration as long as the right support structures are in place.This approach allows us to see the child as an individual capable of change when provided with the right support and care.Diversion measures do not eliminate accountability — they transform consequences into opportunities for growth. By engaging families, schools, and communities, these programmes help children in conflict with the law develop responsibility, rebuild trust, and successfully reintegrate into society. For Maksat, this was a new beginning. And for those around him, it was an example of how one child can avoid a path to reoffending.The Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population, with the support of UNICEF, are advancing the application of diversion measures for minors away from formal justice processes so that every child who comes into conflict with the law receives not only justice, but also understanding, support, and a real chance to start life anew.

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05 February 2026

Type 2 Diabetes: Mahmud's story and why regular check-ups matter

Early Detection I am 40 and from Sarahs. I discovered I had diabetes by chance - during a routine health check-up at my previous job. I had no complaints and felt completely healthy. But a blood test revealed elevated 6.8 glucose level. I was referred to an endocrinologist. The doctor said this was above the norm and that I needed an additional test for glycated hemoglobin, which shows the "average" blood sugar level over three months. To my surprise, I didn't even have to go to Ashgabat for it; I could get the test done right there at the polyclinic in Sarahs. My glycated hemoglobin was also above normal."You have type 2 diabetes," the doctor said after reviewing all my tests. It was a shock for me. Yes, I knew about diabetes - my mother has it. But I always thought I definitely wouldn't get it.Accessible Treatment The doctor explained that I was lucky - the diabetes was detected at an early stage. But she warned me: the disease cannot be cured, only controlled. Almost immediately, after checking that my liver and kidneys were fine, I was prescribed a medication - metformin.Mentally, I was prepared to start buying pills. But it turned out that wasn't even necessary. I was registered at the Sarahs polyclinic, and every month I started receiving metformin for free. I took it twice a day as prescribed. And I still take it to this day.Ongoing ControlThey also detected hypertension, which I was unaware of. A cardiologist selected medications for me, which are also provided to me for free at the polyclinic. And now my blood pressure is stable. Yes, I have to regularly get my blood sugar, creatinine, and albumin checked at my local polyclinic near home to monitor my kidney health. I also get my cholesterol checked there every six months. The doctor explained that with my lifestyle and diagnosis, this is very important: with diabetes, cholesterol plaques form on blood vessel walls faster, which means a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. But all of this is checked quickly - no need to travel to the capital or abroad.Today, I have been living with diabetes for 3 years. I keep it under control! I take my medication, try to watch my diet, check my sugar, and see my doctors. I feel like a person again, not a hostage to the disease. I can work and provide for my family. I can afford to have fun with my younger son without falling apart. We even went on a summer vacation to the seaside!Within Walking DistanceI hope my example helps those who are also facing this problem. The most important thing is not to face the illness alone. Go to the polyclinic, see the specialists - they will help, just as they helped me. Many don't even know that now, in any etrap, you can get almost all tests done at the polyclinics; any etrap has modern laboratories with reagents in stock.I now send all my neighbors to our polyclinic. And many have already gotten checked: some also had high sugar, some had liver issues, some had heart problems. They started treatment right there, receive medications - they don't even have to buy them - and feel better than before. Isn't that happiness? UNDP and Turkmenistan: Jointly Strengthening the Healthcare SystemIn Turkmenistan, UNDP, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry, continues to implement projects aimed at strengthening the healthcare system, ensuring access to diagnostics and quality medicines. Under these initiatives, clinical laboratories are being equipped - from velayat centers to remote etraps across the country - and reagents for conducting a wide spectrum of various tests are being procured. Medications for the treatment of infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases - cardiovascular, neurological, endocrinological, oncological, and rare conditions, including those requiring lifelong therapy - are also being supplied.Access to timely treatment and prevention allows people to maintain their health, ability to work, and quality of life. This opens up opportunities to focus on education, work, and participation in society on an equal basis with others. For the state, this means less disability, fewer social payments, and reduced spending on costly treatment of complications. Healthy people continue to work, pay taxes, and develop the economy, and every investment in prevention yields a manifold return."Universal health coverage, based on the prevention and early detection of diseases, is a fundamental investment in a healthy society and a strong economy, where every resource invested is multiplied by the productivity of citizens. Building on successful experience in innovative technologies, UNDP and Turkmenistan will continue to collaborate in building a resilient healthcare system. Our joint focus is aimed at the widespread expansion of access to diagnostics and treatment, the digitalization of services, and the strengthening of human resource capacity, to make healthcare a driver of sustainable development for every resident of Turkmenistan," - notes Narine Sahakyan, UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan.

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27 January 2026

Redefining Masculinity in Mary

Our story is about what masculinity is and what it means to be a man in the 21st century,how modern young men and young women change the social norms to advance gender equality, empowerment and human rights for all, including women and girls.We would like to tell this story about Nedir, a 35-year-old sports coach from Mary velayat, represents a new generation of Turkmen men in Turkmenistan who are redefining what it means to be a man and what is masculinity. From his childhood Nedir Nedir viewed masculinity through a rigid lens: a man was a provider, a protector, and the sole decision-maker. As a sambo trainer at a local sports school, he lived in a world of physical dominance, teaching teenage boys that "masculine" meant being the strongest person in the room.However, the seeds of change were planted the moment girls began walking into his gym. As he coached them to fight, control their emotions, and claim victory, his old beliefs began to crumble. He watched with immense pride as five of his female students rose to national and international levels in martial arts—traditionally a "man’s world." He realized then that strength and resilience have no gender. Nedir’s transformation reached a turning point when he joined the "Youth, Sports and Gender Equality" initiative, a collaboration between the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Physical Culture and Sport and UNFPA, conducted as part of a UNFPA regional project funded by the UK government. This program gave Nedir a new vocabulary for the feelings he had been developing. He transitioned from a traditional coach to a social advocate, participating in workshops alongside trainers and volunteers from Ashgabat and Lebap. He sharpened his public speaking skills that allowed him to lead discussions on how restrictive social norms hold everyone back.Today, Nedir teaches young men that true strength is found in partnership and respect, not superiority. He often frames gender equality as a team sport—a "win for everyone"— where a healthy society can only be built if every player is given an equal chance to succeed. The most profound change, however, is not found in the gym, but in Nedir’s own home. The man who once believed in "traditional roles" now shares domestic duties and childcare equally with his wife. By prioritizing her rest and her goals, he discovered that a marriage based on mutual respect is far more stable than one based on hierarchy. For Nedir, washing the dishes or caring for his children isn't a loss of masculinity; it is an act of leadership.Today Nedir remains convinced that a coach’s job doesn't end when the whistle blows. He believes that by involving men in the conversation about equality, he is helping to foster a society where both boys and girls have the same chance to realize their potential. To Nedir, being a leader means ensuring that his community wins together, built on a foundation of peace, respect, and shared progress. Currently the programme was scaled up to all 5 regions in the country. By engaging young athletes and coaches in the promotion of gender equality and volunteerism, the project has created a vital movement that continues to popularize healthy lifestyles and equal opportunities through the power of sport.

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23 December 2025

Aysoltan Annamamedova: Turkmenistan’s Rising Talent in Digital Innovation

Always passionate about technology and innovation, Aysoltan Annamamedova, a fourth-year student at the Oguz Khan Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan, recently took a bold step toward the future by participating in the international educational initiative Future Skills Sprint in Istanbul, Turkiye. This intensive programme is designed to cultivate digital skills, innovative thinking, and professional competencies among talented youth.The initiative, organized by the MEXT Technology Center in partnership with the Istanbul Regional Hub of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP IRH), UNDP Turkiye, and Turkish tech company Hepsiburada, brought together young professionals from around the world from November 20 to 22, 2025, to explore emerging trends in artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and the evolving global labor market.Aysoltan earned her place in the in-person programme after completing rigorous six-week online courses offered by UNDP IRH. During these preparatory courses, international experts guided participants through topics such as automation, AI, sustainability, supply chains, and global technological trends. These courses not only strengthened her collaboration and problem-solving skills but also inspired her to pursue advanced opportunities in digital innovation.“The Future Skills Sprint opened a world of new opportunities for me,” says Aysoltan. “It gave me the confidence to keep moving forward, learn more, and shape my own future.During the three-day sprint in Istanbul, Aysoltan gained invaluable, firsthand exposure to cutting-edge technologies. Highlights of the programme included a Digital Factory Tour showcasing Industry 4.0 technologies, lectures on the EU ETS and CBAM mechanisms, and workshops connecting technology solutions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The sessions not only deepened her technical knowledge but also strengthened her creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork skills — all vital for the fast-evolving digital world. Building Technical Expertise with the Future Work AcademyAysoltan’s participation in the Future Skills Sprint is part of a broader regional effort led by the UNDP Istanbul Regional Hub - the Future of Work Academy. This initiative equips young people across Europe and Central Asia with the skills needed for the green and digital transition. The Sprint serves as the Academy’s intensive, in-person training module, offering hands-on exposure to artificial intelligence, Industry 4.0 technologies, sustainability, and future-oriented competences.By completing the six-week online preparatory courses and joining the in-person Sprint, Aysoltan became part of this regional ecosystem, empowering youth with practical, forward-thinking skills. The program has strengthened her ability to thrive in the ever-evolving job market and inspired her to take on more ambitious projects.Networking with peers from Turkiye, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan added another dimension to her experience. Sharing ideas and collaborating with young professionals from diverse backgrounds broadened her perspective. “Future Skills Sprint gave me the confidence to keep learning, experimenting, and embracing opportunities,” Aysoltan shared. “Every new skill opens a door to innovation and shapes the path of my professional growth.” Learning and Growing with Future Skills AcademyIn addition to her experience in Istanbul, Aysoltan continues to develop her expertise through UNDP’s Future Skills Academy. This dynamic initiative, launched in August 2025 in collaboration with the UNDP Knowledge Project under the Country Component for Turkmenistan of the regional project, funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by UNDP in partnership with the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population of Turkmenistan, offers youth across Turkmenistan access to high-quality, future-focused online courses on Coursera platform. The courses are designed to equip young people with the in-demand skills needed in today’s competitive job market. Aysoltan is currently enrolled in the IBM AI Engineering course, along with other programmes in digital literacy, programming, and professional development. Through this comprehensive learning journey, Aysoltan is not only strengthening her digital competencies and cultivating innovation but also preparing to grow into a highly skilled Web Developer capable of leading teams and driving impactful projects. As part of her experience with the Future Skills Academy and the Future Skills Sprint, she is taking courses in Cyber-Physical Systems with a focus on Biomedical Electronics and the IBM AI Engineering course, all of which support her long-term goal of taking on larger projects and advancing her career in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.The first Future Skills Academy has already proven successful, with over 1,000 young people and women completing the first cohort. The second round continues to empower youth like Aysoltan, enhancing their employability, resilience, and meaningful participation in society. Aysoltan’s dedication not only reflects personal ambition but also highlights the potential of Turkmen youth to drive technological innovation and contribute to social progress.“Every new skill I learn gives me more confidence to try new things. I feel ready to take on challenges, explore ideas, and use what I know to make a difference.”Aysoltan’s journey underscores the transformative power of youth-driven innovation. Through initiatives like the Future Skills Sprint and the Future Skills Academy, UNDP is helping young people around the world bridge the digital divide, build in-demand skills, and contribute to sustainable, inclusive development. Her story is a testament to how investing in youth today will create the leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow.

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03 December 2025

Changing social norms: UN advances Disability Inclusion in Turkmenistan and strengthens partnerships towards elimination of stigma

Across Ashgabat, signs of a more inclusive future are emerging — not only within conference halls, but also in parks, sports fields, and creative spaces where people come together to celebrate their diversity.This year was more imposing in participation than the previous three. It all began from featuring two singers with disability at the UN concert dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, continued with a policy discussion and culminated with manifestation of diversity at a disability inclusion festival.“Inclusion is not just a principle—it is a practice that transforms societies. By bringing policy and community together, we are building Turkmenistan where every person, regardless of ability, can participate fully and equally.” — Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in TurkmenistanOrganized in partnership of the United Nations with disability organizations, the Festival began with a lively gathering at the central Ashgabat Park, where families, children, athletes, artists, and volunteers filled the paths with movement and laughter. The annual “We Are Different – We Are Equal” Inclusive Festival has once again transformed the park into a vibrant space of empowerment — a place where everyone, regardless of ability, could participate, create, compete, and connect. Visitors moved from one activity zone to another: a chess match unfolding under shady trees, an inclusive tennis rally surrounded by cheering voices, colorful crafts shaped by young artists with visual disabilities, and an eco-zone where children built playful creations from recycled materials. Music, dance, and bright displays of handmade art filled the air with energy and joy. The festival led by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office gathered together the UN agencies (OHCHR, UNFPA, UNICEF, WHO and IOM), Organizations of persons with disabilities , civil society, sport federations, Government representatives and diplomatic community reminded everyone present that inclusion is not an abstract concept — it is lived, experienced, shared, and celebrated. For the second year in a row, the Deputy Foreign Minister opened the Festival together with the Resident Coordinator . This sent a powerful signal to other Ministries which participated in considerably larger numbers . So were the diplomatic corps, with some 15 Ambassadors personally participating.“For our community, being part of this festival means being seen and heard. It’s a chance to show that we are active, creative, and capable. Inclusion is about participation, and today we feel that fully,” Leyla Atayeva, a representative of the Deaf and Blind Society, Just a few days earlier, the spirit of inclusion took a different form in a roundtable discussion where national policymakers, UN agencies, civil society organizations, including representatives of organizations of persons with disabilities gathered at one table. The Roundtable on “Inclusion through Partnership” explored how Turkmenistan can strengthen its national frameworks to ensure equal rights and opportunities for persons with disabilities. Participants openly exchanged ideas and experiences — from expanding inclusive education and improving accessible services to removing social barriers and promoting participation in public life. Just as the government representatives spoke about progress and future ambitions, the civil society groups added their voices — voices grounded in lived experience, achieved milestones and daily advocacy. Together, they looked closely at international commitments, including the Universal Periodic Review and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, recommendations for strengthening the national legislative framework in line with the Convention identifying practical steps to move from promises to actions. Over the course of two days, experts from OHCHR facilitated technical consultations to identify priority areas for developing Turkmenistan’s National Strategy on the rights of persons with disabilities. The workshop embraced the principle of “Nothing about us without us”, ensuring that persons with disabilities were not only consulted but actively involved in shaping the strategy. Taken together, the UN concert, the lively festival in the park and the thoughtful dialogue at the roundtable tell one shared story: inclusion grows strongest when policy and community move forward together. One shows the joy and creativity of inclusive participation; the other lays the foundation that makes such participation possible in every community, school, workplace, and public space.Building on this momentum, the United Nations in Turkmenistan will continue to work closely with the Government and Organizations of persons with disabilities to develop and endorse a National Strategy on the rights of persons with disabilities. This strategy that is informed by dialogue, grounded in human rights and inspired by the lived experiences of people with disabilities will aim to ensure that inclusion becomes a lasting, transformative part of Turkmenistan’s development. Together, the UN and the Government are taking meaningful steps toward a future where everyone can enjoy his rights and participate fully and equally, and where the message at the heart of the festival becomes a reality across the country: we are different — we are equal.

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Press Release

11 March 2026

Celebrating Women’s Leadership: Diverse Perspectives

Ashgabat, 10 March 2026 — In celebration of International Women’s Day, a high-level dialogue titled “Celebrating Women’s Leadership: Diverse Perspectives” brought together diplomats, senior government officials and university students at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan (IIR MFA).The event, moderated by Mr. Dmytro Shlapachenko, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, created an informal and engaging space for dialogue between women leaders and young female participants. Designed in a conversational format, the event encouraged open exchange on leadership, equality and the role of young women in shaping the future of the country. Opening the event, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Ms. Mahri Bashimova, highlighted the importance of empowering women and girls through education, skills development and leadership opportunities. She emphasized that supporting young women in pursuing ambitious careers contributes not only to national development but also to a more inclusive and resilient society. The leadership dialogue featured distinguished speakers including the Dr. Faryal Leghari, Ambassador of Pakistan, Ms. Rana Abu Hijleh, the Ambassador of Palestine, and Ms. Chinar Rustamova, Executive Secretary of the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO and Ms. Narine Sahakyan, UNDP Resident Representative. During the discussion, the speakers reflected on their personal journeys to leadership, sharing experiences that shaped their careers and the challenges they overcame as women in diplomacy and public service.The conversation explored several key themes, including pathways to leadership, overcoming barriers faced by women leaders, and the role of women’s leadership in advancing sustainable development, peace and inclusion across the region. Speakers underscored that the next generation of young women will play a critical role in driving progress toward a more equitable future. Closing the event, Mr. Shlapachenko thanked the speakers and participants for their inspiring contributions and encouraged young women to pursue leadership roles with confidence and determination.International Women’s Day, observed annually on 8 March, celebrates the achievements of women and calls for accelerated progress toward gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.

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Press Release

09 March 2026

United Nations Launches Second Regional Training for Young Diplomats of Central Asia in Ashgabat

The opening ceremony took place at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, moderated by the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, Mr. Dmytro Shlapachenko. Senior officials delivered remarks, including: Ms. Mahri Bashimova, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of TurkmenistanMr. Luigi Ferrari, Ambassador of Italy to TurkmenistanMr. Stephen Conlon, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to TurkmenistanMr. Kemal Goshliyev, Head of UNFPA Turkmenistan Country Office The training was possible due to the financial support from the Government of Italy and United Kingdom, it contributes to a broader UN-led initiative to foster regional cooperation, strengthen diplomatic capacity, and promote mutual understanding among future leaders of the five Central Asian states. Over the course of the week, young diplomats will deepen their knowledge of the United Nations system, international law, sustainable development, humanitarian action, gender equality, economic analysis, human rights, and environmental diplomacy. “The UN is committed to empowering the next generation of diplomatic leaders,” said Mr. Shlapachenko, emphasizing that investing in young diplomats strengthens long-term regional stability and collaboration. With the participation of the UN Resident Coordinators from Central Asia, UN agency heads, representatives of partner governments, and international organizations, the training combines high-level presentations, simulation exercises, practical skills workshops, diplomatic protocol and etiquette sessions, public speaking and media communication modules, thematic briefings on SDGs, humanitarian principles, data, and demography, visits to UN agencies and UNRCCA. The participants will also join a Regional Youth Dialogue, meet with ambassadors from all five Central Asian countries, and take part in cultural and networking activities. The training will conclude on 13 March 2026 with a closing ceremony at the Institute of International Relations, and a reception hosted by the Embassy of Japan.

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Press Release

06 March 2026

Specialists from Family Support Services Strengthen Skills in Social Service Delivery for Families and Women in Vulnerable Situations

The training was attended by representatives of the Institute of State, Law and Democracy of Turkmenistan, specialists from the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population, staff of the NRCST, and the public organization "Keyik Okara." Participants discussed strengthening the interagency response mechanism and the coordination of services provided by governmental and public organizations to ensure comprehensive and rapid assistance to survivors.The training program focused on strengthening service delivery in line with international standards of ethics, safety, and confidentiality. Specialists analyzed the results of helpline operations, case management algorithms, and methods for assessing the risk of repeated violence. Special attention was paid to inclusive assistance for women with disabilities and children. During interactive sessions, participants practiced skills for managing complex real-life cases and interagency response protocols. This UNFPA initiative contributes to the creation of a sustainable social support system for vulnerable populations in the country, based on advanced evidence-based methods and professional ethics, ensuring the protection of rights and the well-being of every woman.***Sagadat Sabitova is an international expert from Kazakhstan with extensive professional experience in social protection and the prevention of gender-based violence. Ms. Sabitova specializes in the development and implementation of case management systems, as well as training social service specialists on international standards of psychosocial support. Her long-term expert work is aimed at strengthening the capacity of national partners in Central Asia on women's rights protection, the integration of inclusive approaches, and the creation of safe mechanisms for assisting survivors.For additional information: Mehri Karakulova, Programme Analyst on Gender and Youth, karakulova@unfpa.org

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Press Release

05 March 2026

Turkmenistan Delegation Explored International Standards for Gender-Based Violence Response in Emergencies

The primary objective of the workshop was to explore issues related to the prevention of GBV during emergencies and to strengthen coordination and emergency preparedness, taking into account gender considerations while implementing minimum standards and emergency readiness measures. Participants discussed the organization of the humanitarian architecture and cluster system during emergencies, the creation of safe spaces for women and girls, and the provision of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). They also focused on coordination and interagency response mechanisms to ensure the inclusive protection of the population, following the principle of "leaving no one behind".The workshop program also covered risk assessment methods, humanitarian coordination mechanisms, and the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA) in emergency situations. Special attention was paid to integrating these approaches into national preparedness and response plans. Ms. Ana Araujo, International Specialist on Violence Against Women in Emergencies, emphasized that: “It is vital to establish referral systems for providing assistance to women survivors during peacetime, which will serve as the foundation for each country's emergency response readiness. These systems allow for the timely, safe, and confidential referral of women and girls to existing high-quality interagency services and facilities.”The workshop provided participants with an opportunity to exchange experiences and lessons learned with specialists from other Central Asian countries. The knowledge gained will help national partners improve internal protocols to ensure the safety and protection of the rights of women and girls in emergency situations.

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