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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19 May 2020

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18 October 2024

At The Forefront Of The Environmental Struggle: The Story Of Ogulsuray From Dashoguz

Dashoguz province in Turkmenistan faces significant challenges due to the lingering effects of the Aral Sea crisis and the intensifying impact of climate change. Declining rainfall, water shortages, and land degradation have severely impacted the livelihoods of its people and destroying fragile ecosystems. Yet, amidst this harsh reality, one woman stands as a beacon of hope and resilience: Ogulsuray Atayeva, who has dedicated her life to empowering rural communities in the face of daunting environmental challenges. As the leader of Eco-Durmush, the first and only women-led NGO in the Dashoguz region, Ogulsuray is not just fighting climate change –she's building the capacity of rural women, strengthening their resilience, and constantly advocating for sustainable growth. Her tireless efforts inspire local communities to adapt to a changing climate and create a more sustainable future. On the Way to Empowering Local Communities The journey wasn't easy. The story begins in 2015, when Ogulsuray witnessed the devastating impact of climate change on her community and decided to embark on a mission to empower them and build resilience by opening the NGO “Eco-Durmush”. Despite facing initial resistance from some local communities who were skeptical about the potential of a women-led organization to address such pressing issues, the organization quickly became a platform for collaboration, bringing together international projects, government bodies, fellow NGOs, and the private sector. All efforts have been made to provide rural people with the skills and knowledge they needed not only to survive, but also to thrive in the face of a changing climate, particularly in response to the consequences of the Aral Sea crisis. Eco Durmush provided local communities with practical skills in national legislation for successful business registration and management, trained in good agricultural practices and environmental management. By promoting sustainable agriculture and organic farming practices, an NGO has played a crucial role in building climate-resilient food systems in the region. This has not only helped to ensure food security but has also contributed to the preservation of the local environment and biodiversity. She also kept advocating for the rational use of water resources and implementing drip irrigation systems to improve water efficiency and increase agricultural productivity in the region. Under Ogulsuray's leadership, Eco-Durmush confronted prevailing gender stereotypes directly. By creating income-generating opportunities through eco-friendly businesses, they challenged the belief that women cannot be the main breadwinners of the family. "Empowering rural women and fostering sustainable practices is not just about improving livelihoods; it is about transforming communities and building resilience against the challenges of climate change. Together we can create a future, in which every woman has the opportunity to thrive," – says Ogulsuray. Jumagul, one of the beneficiaries of Eco-Durmush’s training programs, is a shining example of the NGO's impact. With the guidance and support of Eco-Durmush, she successfully launched her own beadwork business, selling her products both locally and online, which has significantly improved her economic situation. Under Ogulsuray's leadership, Eco-Durmush has also played an important role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among the youth of the region. The NGO supported the creation and development of innovative business ideas, such as organic fertilizer production and healthy food delivery services. Eco-Durmush mentors aspiring entrepreneurs, by providing them with the knowledge and resources necessary to start and maintain their businesses, which creates a positive effect, empowering local communities and increasing the economic vitality of the entire Dashoguz region. Ogulsuray's vision extended beyond individual success. Eco-Durmush became a breeding ground for social cohesion. They organized ecological fairs and festivals, engaging youth in climate action and promoting a sustainable lifestyle. These events contributed to the formation of a sense of community and collective responsibility for the environment.Collaboration with UNDP: A Partnership for ProgressThe United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), a key partner in Ogulsuray's journey, played a vital role. The UNDP's support has been pivotal in strengthening the impact of Eco-Durmush's initiatives. Through various programs and funding opportunities, UNDP has provided the resources and expertise needed to build a more resilient and self-sufficient community in Dashoguz region.The NGO's mission in Turkmenistan aligns closely with UNDP's efforts aimed at sustainable development and conservation of key ecosystems in the Turkmenistan part of the Aral Sea region. Through her active participation in the Global Environmental Facility (GEF) -funded project “Conservation and Sustainable Management of Land Resources and Natural Ecosystems in the Aral Sea Basin”, implemented by the UNDP and the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan, Ogulsuray effectively shared valuable knowledge and skills with local communities. This collaboration has allowed Ogulsuray to expand her reach and influence by incorporating global best practices into her local initiatives and ensuring her community benefits from modern approaches to sustainable development. Through partnership with the UNDP, the Eco-Durmush has gained access to advanced training programs, essential funding, and invaluable mentoring opportunities focusing on integrating sustainable land and water management practices to improve agricultural productivity, thereby improving the livelihoods of rural women and their families. These resources have enabled the organization to significantly scale up its efforts by promoting gender-specific initiatives to ensure that women’s voices are integral part of local climate adaptation plans. Ogulsuray's story is a story not only of personal triumph, but also of collective resilience and vision. It's a testament to the power of partnerships—between NGOs, governmental agencies, and international organizations—to bring about meaningful change on the ground. The work of Eco-Durmush, led by Ogulsuray, has demonstrated the power of grassroots initiatives in addressing the devastating effects of climate crisis. A Journey Continues In the vast expanse of Turkmenistan's Aral Sea region, Ogulsuray continues her journey, guided by the desire to a sustainable future for generations to come. She is full of energy and commitment to help local people not only become more resilient but also thrive in a changing environment. “We will feel the consequences of the Aral Sea crisis for many years to come, but it should not define our future,” – says Ogulsuray. “With every drop of water saved, every new tree planted, every new skill acquired, every member of the community empowered we are weaving a future, in which our communities not only survive, but also thrive. This is our legacy, a legacy built on resilience, collaboration, and the unwavering faith in a bright future."

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04 October 2024

Renovated medical facility put into operation in Parahatchylyk village of Akhal province to provide long-term quality medical services to Afghan and local communities

October 2, 2024, Ashgabat. A medical facility was inaugurated in Parahatchylyk village of Akhal velayat following the renovation and re-equipped with the support of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Turkmenistan for provision of long-term quality medical services to the village residents totaling about one thousand people, including the Afghan community living in the village. The opening ceremony, coinciding with celebrations of Turkmenistan's Independence Day, was attended by local representatives of the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, the velayat administration, villagers and representatives of the Afghan community. Other than renovation of rooms for gynaecological, immunization and therapeutic services, the medical facility also got two additional rooms for general medical consultation. All rooms were equipped with relevant medical devices, computer equipment and furniture. The renovation of the medical facility and technical supervision was carried out by a national construction company and a national expert. 18 Afghan and 4 local community representatives were also contracted for the renovation works. As was noted by the ceremony participants, the renovation of the medical facility in Parahatchylyk village is evidence of the successful cooperation between IOM and national partners in expanding the socio-economic opportunities of vulnerable groups, especially women and girls, and strengthening the social cohesion of local communities and Afghan nationals residing there to ensure long-term sustainable development at the local level. The renovation of the medical facility in the village of Parahatchylyk is one of the components of IOM’s three-year regional project “Comprehensive Action Plan for Afghanistan and Neighboring Countries”. The project successfully operates a Mobile Resource Center, which to date has provided medical services and legal consultations to over 4,000 beneficiaries from the Afghan and local communities living in the villages of Akhal and Lebap provinces. In addition, the project supported the provision of vocational training in sewing to 50 women from the Afghan and local communities at the Vocational School of the Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan in Mary, 17 of whom have by now managed to establish their own businesses.The project is implemented with direct involvement of representatives of the Afghan and local communities in Akhal and Lebap provinces and close cooperation with local authorities and non-governmental organizations. IOM Contact Person in Turkmenistan:Dovlet Chariyev, Project Associate tel.: +99365708755, e-mail: dchariyev@iom.int

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18 September 2024

Youth of Turkmenistan Take Climate Action: National Conference Prepares for COY19 and COP29

September 16, 2024, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan - the Government of Turkmenistan, in collaboration with the UN Resident Coordinator's Office, the UN Development Program (UNDP), the Embassies of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Great Britain and the United Arab Emirates in Turkmenistan, and supported by the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ), hosted the National Conference of Youth on Climate Change. This event held at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and brought together young participants from across the region to discuss environmental issues and explore opportunities for youth involvement in climate action. The conference was attended by guests of honor: Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mr. Gismet Fizuli oglu Gezalov, British Ambassador in Turkmenistan Mr. Stephen Conlon, Ambassador of the UAE Mr. Ahmed Al Hameli, the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko, Director of the EU for Green Turkmenistan Program Ms. Caroline Milow; young people aged 17 to 35, young SDG Ambassadors, eco-activists, as well as representatives of UNDP, UNICEF, FAO, European Union, GIZ and specialists from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Education and Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan. The Conference of Youth on Climate Change, attended by more than 700 young people from all over Turkmenistan, was held ahead of the 19th Conference of Youth (COY19) and the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. The conference aimed to raise awareness among younger generations about climate change, its impact on socio-economic development, environmental sustainability and biodiversity, and to develop common approaches to implement innovative solutions that promote climate change adaptation and mitigation. This year the conference has further expanded its scope. Regional meetings were held in the cities of Dashoguz, Balkanabat, Mary, Turkmenabat and Bezmein, thereby covering all 5 velayats of Turkmenistan. Young SDG Ambassadors and eco-activists interacted with youth from these cities, facilitating the exchange of ideas and providing the opportunity for the most active participants to show their projects at the final conference.After the opening ceremony, where the youth were welcomed by the honorable guests of the Conference, the first session commenced with a presentation by the Ozone Center representative on the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. Then youth representatives presented the results of the conferences held in the velayats. During the second session, the participants divided into working groups, each of which discussed different aspects of environmental challenges and possible ways to address them. Key topics of discussion included the sustainable management of natural resources in the Turkmen region of the Caspian and Aral Seas in the context of climate change, sustainable water management in agriculture, the role of IT technologies in addressing climate change, the benefits of renewable energy sources, air quality, ozone layer protection and environmental education. Experts and facilitators led the discussions, outlining the objectives and expected outcomes of each session. Following the discussions, each group prepared their proposals for inclusion in the preliminary version of the Turkmenistan Youth Statement. At the final session, the leaders of each working group presented their proposals, which were included in the preliminary version of the Youth Roadmap for Climate Action. These proposals will be included in the final version of the Turkmenistan Youth Statement, which will be presented at COY19 and then at COP29.The conference served as a vital platform to empower Turkmenistan's youth, foster dialogue and equip the next generation of climate leaders with the knowledge and tools to make a lasting impact. The final Youth Climate Statement will reflect the collective vision of Turkmen youth and contribute to the broader UNFCCC processes, emphasizing their commitment to a sustainable and climate-resilient future. The Conference of Youth (COY) is an annual event that brings together young people from across the globe to engage in climate action discussions. COY19 will serve as a preparatory platform for youth engagement ahead of COP29, the pivotal UN conference dedicated to global climate change solutions. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) serves as the international framework for addressing climate change, and the Conference of the Parties (COP) is its highest decision-making body.

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16 August 2024

“With citizenship, I will feel complete.”

By Mariko Hall, UNHCR External Relations Officer, with Balzhan Oshakbayeva, Protection AssociateFor most of her life, Anna thought she was a citizen of Russia. Since moving to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, in the early 90s when she was five years old, she would tell people that she was a Russian citizen. It wasn't until recent years, when her and her mother visited the Russian embassy, that documents were uncovered stating she was, in fact, not a citizen at all. Suddenly Anna understood that not only was she not a citizen of Russia, but she was not considered a citizen of any country in the world – she was stateless. “I was so lost when I heard that I’m not a citizen,” says Anna. Inter-generational impacts of statelessnessWhen Anna came to the newly independent Turkmenistan as a child, she was enrolled in kindergarten, and went on to complete primary school and high school in Ashgabat. She learnt Turkmen language and settled into her new home, while still believing herself to be a citizen of Russia. Even when her birth certificate was lost, and she faced challenges as an adult because of her lack of identity documents, she was not too concerned. Anna worked unofficially, first as a waitress until she was 25 years old, and then doing private jobs such as cleaning. “I had issues because I didn’t have citizenship documents, but I didn’t pay serious attention to them,” says Anna. “I only started to pay attention when I had children.” When Anna's two children were born, they could not be registered because she did not have any documents to prove her identity or nationality. Anna’s two children were then stateless too. Statelessness in TurkmenistanA stateless person is not considered as a national by any country. As of mid-2023, there were 3,351 reported stateless people in Turkmenistan. Most are ex-citizens of the former Soviet Union, or their descendants, who have not yet acquired or confirmed citizenship of Turkmenistan. Others are born stateless or became stateless due to gaps in nationality laws, international migration, and mixed marriages.Turkmenistan hosts documented stateless people, as well as stateless people who do not have documents – so-called ‘people with undetermined nationality’. With no proof of having a nationality or any legal status, people with undetermined nationality have difficulty accessing basic rights such as education, healthcare, employment, and freedom of movement. They may be unable to register marriage, or – like with Anna – the birth of their children. Documented stateless people in Turkmenistan are issued with a ‘Stateless person’s certificate’ from the government, enabling them to stay in the country, and access legal employment, public services and healthcare. Turkmenistan also practises the ‘propiska’ system, inherited from the Soviet era, requiring every adult and household to prove ownership of a place of permanent residence to be able to access employment, social benefits (such as maternity and child support, and pension payments), free health care and education for children. Stateless people in Turkmenistan, however, cannot get propiska. “I’m tired of this situation,” says Anna. “I just want official, decent work, with official payment.”As they were born in Turkmenistan, Anna's children were eventually confirmed as citizens based on the expired USSR passport of their grandmother. Even so, without his mother’s ‘propiska’, 16-year-old Dmitriy cannot complete his mandatory military service, obtain a passport, or pursue higher education.Ending statelessness by 2024Since the launch of the 10-year global #IBelong Campaign to End Statelessness, Turkmenistan, supported by UNHCR, has made great process in reducing and preventing statelessness, documenting the citizenship of more than 13,000 people. Turkmenistan is the only country in Central Asia that has already acceded to the two UN Conventions on Statelessness.In 2020, Turkmenistan introduced a law on Civil Status Acts ensuring all children born in the country can be registered at birth, including those with undocumented parents. In 2021, Turkmenistan adopted Statelessness Determination Procedures.These improvements in legislation have enabled Anna to be documented as a stateless person. With her Stateless Person’s certificate, Anna has been able to apply for citizenship of Turkmenistan, which – as per Turkmenistan’s National Action Plan to End Statelessness – she should obtain later this year. “With citizenship, I will feel complete,” says Anna. “I will feel like a full-fledged person, a member of society.”

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13 August 2024

Youth Day Celebrated with the Documentary Film Screening Event on SDGs

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan – August 13, 2024 – In a celebration of Youth Day, the Documentary Film Screening event was held to engage young people in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event, which took place at the UN House in Ashgabat, provided a platform for youth to explore the significance of the SDGs and their role in shaping a sustainable future. The highlight of the event was the screening of the film "The Agreement", a compelling 45-minute documentary film recently unveiled by the UN Office for Partnerships during the SDG Summit. The UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko hosted this exclusive screening. Independent film, known for its blend of drama, suspense, and an insightful storyline, delves into the creation of the SDGs, offering viewers a deeper understanding of how these goals were established and their impact on the world. The event was well-received, with attendees expressing their appreciation for the film's powerful message and the opportunity to engage in discussions about the SDGs.Following the screening, a lively discussion was held, where participants reflected on the themes presented in the film and shared their thoughts on how they can contribute to achieving the SDGs. The discussion highlighted the importance of youth involvement in global development efforts and underscored the role of the SDGs as common ambitions for all people across the globe. "The film "The Agreement" provides an insightful and comprehensive examination of the complex process behind establishing the SDGs. These goals, which serve as a global blueprint for achieving a better and more sustainable future, are central to addressing the most pressing challenges of our time, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, and peace and justice. The film not only captures the intricacies of the negotiations and agreements that led to the establishment of the SDGs but also emphasizes the importance of global collaboration in achieving these ambitious targets." Servi, young SDG Ambassador said.The event fostered a sense of community and shared responsibility towards building a better and more sustainable world. It was a fitting celebration of Youth Day, emphasizing the critical role that youth play in advancing the SDGs.

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Press Release

05 November 2024

Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge nominated by Member States to serve as WHO Regional Director for Europe for a second 5-year term

Copenhagen, 30 October 2024 The Member States of the WHO European Region have nominated Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge to the office of WHO Regional Director for Europe for a second 5-year term, which will begin in February 2025 after his formal election by the WHO Executive Board. Addressing delegates at the 74th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, meeting in Copenhagen (RC74), Dr Kluge expressed his gratitude. “Serving as WHO Regional Director for Europe has been the honour of my life, and I am truly so thankful – and humbled – by the overwhelming support demonstrated for my nomination. Looking ahead to my second term next year, my first task will be to consult all 53 Member States across Europe and central Asia, as well as all our health partners, to develop our next 5-year plan together, also known as the European Programme of Work’s second edition,” said Dr Kluge. “We will continue to build on the many successes of the past 5 years, including our work on pandemic preparedness and health system strengthening, mental health, digital health, and immunization. But we will also expand our priorities to include critical areas like strengthening national health security, tackling the health impacts of the climate crisis, taking urgent action on antimicrobial resistance and promoting healthy ageing amid rapidly shifting demographics. All of this will be complemented by a renewed focus on women, girls and youth, including by addressing the damaging pushback on sexual and reproductive health and rights, and a concerning rise in gender-based violence.”Member States at RC74 have also been discussing how to work with WHO/Europe and within their own countries to tackle 4 pressing issues: adopting a framework for resilient and sustainable health systems, underpinned by strong levels of trust, a renewed commitment to primary health care and increased investment in the health workforce; strengthening health emergency preparedness, response and resilience in the European Region – also known as Preparedness 2.0;enhancing emergency medical teams capacity up to 2030, to ensure rapid deployments to acute health emergencies wherever they occur; and developing a strategy for harnessing health innovations and emerging technologies in the Region, which will be presented for endorsement in 2025. Resilient and sustainable health systems Member States acknowledge the need to continue to invest in and strengthen their health systems, learning lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic. Ultimately, improving the health and well-being of citizens will rest on a number of critical actions, such as bolstering the role of primary health care and family doctors; investing in the health workforce of tomorrow through proper training, recruitment and retention; harnessing digital solutions and artificial intelligence in health care; and developing sustainable financing models that ensure health systems have the necessary funds to deliver quality care. “It’s time to shift our mind sets and view health once and for all as an essential investment and not just a cost to the taxpayer,” continued Dr Kluge. “Evidence across our Region and globally shows that investments in the health sector are not a drain on the economy – quite the opposite. In fact, the health sector provides multiple benefits beyond individual and community health and well-being. It promotes economic growth and job creation, contributes to social cohesion, and improves workforce efficiency, to name just 3.”Preparedness 2.0 Preparedness 2.0 is WHO/Europe’s new regional strategy and action plan for health emergency preparedness, response and resilience for the coming 5 years (2024–2029). Designed to elevate efforts in the Region to prepare for, prevent, respond to and become more resilient to health emergencies, this forward-thinking plan takes preparedness to the next level as it builds on the lessons learned from recent crises. “We have an opportunity to absorb and implement the lessons of COVID-19 and other health emergencies, and apply them in a strategic, ambitious yet practical way to ensure we are better prepared for whatever may happen,” said Dr Kluge. “Adopting a dual track approach is key, whereby health systems are designed to deliver essential health services while at the same time being ready to scale up and respond to health emergencies at short notice. Preparedness 2.0 also complements ongoing efforts by WHO Member States to reach a global Pandemic Accord, along with recent amendments to the International Health Regulations.” Emergency medical teams The Emergency Medical Teams (EMT) Regional Action Plan 2024–2030 paves the way for countries of the European Region to establish and strengthen their own EMT capacities. By supporting national efforts, this plan ensures high-quality, life-saving medical services are closer to those who need them in times of crisis. The European Region is already home to one of the world’s strongest EMT networks, comprising over 85 teams with more than 75 000 highly trained medical professionals, providing a solid foundation for implementing the Regional Action Plan.“From natural disasters to conflicts to disease outbreaks, the goal is better preparedness and faster response, ensuring everyone, everywhere, receives the care they need when it matters most. We’ve seen how critical EMTs have been to our health response to the war in Ukraine, the devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and climate-related emergencies. Together, we’re making sure that every country in our Region can stand strong, equipped, and ready to respond with EMT support to a range of health challenges,” said Dr Kluge. Harnessing health innovations and emerging technologies In the face of multiple crises, the unfinished agenda of noncommunicable diseases and mental health, an ageing population and shortages of health workers, business as usual is simply not an option for European Region health systems. The health sector must adopt innovation as a core process in promoting health. The Region has many innovation hubs in health, but they can often operate in silos and fail to exchange knowledge and ideas with other sectors, including public health. New solutions emerge daily, often too fast for governments to evaluate, adapt and adopt. That is why Member States are working together to develop a strategy to harness health innovations and emerging technologies, with a view to endorsing the strategy at next year’s Regional Committee meeting. “We have limitless opportunities to exploit technological, social and financial innovations in the European Region,” noted Dr Kluge. “These new technologies can revolutionize patient experiences, help manage chronic conditions, promote good health and well-being, and support our health and care workers. But despite their promise, we are yet to unleash their full potential. Countries still struggle to finance, implement and form partnerships with start-ups and innovation hubs, and share the benefits on innovation ethically and equitably. Together, by building on the solid examples of innovations we’ve already established in digital health and novel medicines in recent years, we hope to change that.”Permacrisis the new normalDr Kluge began his first term as Regional Director just as the COVID-19 pandemic was taking hold, devastating lives and livelihoods everywhere, placing unprecedented pressures on health systems. As COVID-19 began to come under control, another health emergency, mpox, initially emerged in the European Region before becoming a global concern. Added to that were extreme weather events including heatwaves and floods, the earthquakes in Türkiye and Northwest Syria, as well as acute, long-running humanitarian crises in Ukraine, and Gaza, Israel and Lebanon. In short, the past 5 years have been marked by a permanent state of crisis – or permacrisis – challenging health systems and health workers on multiple fronts. “By identifying and acting on priorities of importance to the almost 1 billion people across Europe and central Asia, our Member States display welcome solidarity and multilateralism at a time of deepening distrust and division,” concluded Dr Kluge. “Health can and does bring countries and communities together. We at WHO/Europe are grateful for the opportunity to work with our Member States and partners to help shape the future of health for the benefit of all.”

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Press Release

17 October 2024

National Workshop in Ashgabat Concludes Under the GEFUNDP-UNESCO Project

The event brought together cryosphere research experts, data management specialists, and policymakers. The event was conducted using the GEF IW:LEARN methodology for Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis and Strategic Action Plans (TDA/SAP). The main goal of the workshop was to present to local specialists the status of the cryosphere in other Central Asian, discuss key challenges in monitoring and research, propose solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change on the cryosphere in Turkmenistan. Chinar Rustamova, Executive Secretary of the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO, opened the event, emphasizing that Turkmenistan aims to expand cooperation with international organizations like the UN, UNESCO, and UNDP to address issues of rational water resource management and climate change."The dynamics of global warming lead to the reduction and melting of glaciers, which disrupts the planet’s water balance, including our region’s, where water levels in the Syr Darya and Amu Darya rivers are declining," said Chinar Rustamova.“Our country, like others dependent on the Amu Darya’s waters, relies heavily on the flow of its tributaries originating from the Pamir and Hindu Kush mountain ranges,” noted Pirli Kepbanov, the Director of the National Institute of Deserts, Flora, and Fauna under the Ministry of Nature Protection of Turkmenistan. He highlighted that the health of the Amu Darya directly influences the country’s water supply and ecosystems, including the Karakum River, which provides up to 90% of the nation’s freshwater needs.Participants discussed the outcomes of the cryosphere assessment in Central Asia, examining key issues identified during previous seminars, with a particular emphasis on the context of Turkmenistan. The second day focused on interactive group discussions, where participants explored stakeholders' perspectives, identified priorities in raising awareness, capacity building, and planning pilot activities for Turkmenistan under the project. “The workshop was filled with interactive discussions, which facilitated an active exchange of experiences and the development of concrete next steps,” said Nana Baramidze, Project Manager.The outcomes of the fruitful work during the workshop should significantly contribute to the development of scenario-based strategies to address future changes in the cryosphere across Central Asia and to enhance regional cooperation and adaptation measures. The project "Strengthening the Resilience of Central Asian Countries through Regional Cooperation on the Assessment of Glacio-Nival Systems to Develop Integrated Sustainable Development and Climate Change Adaptation Strategies," financed by the GEF through UNDP and implemented by UNESCO, addresses a critical environmental challenge in the region – the degradation of snow, glacier, and permafrost systems (glacio-nival systems), which are key sources of water for Central Asian countries. As the region heavily relies on these systems for water supply, agriculture, and energy, understanding and preserving them is essential. The project aims to strengthen regional cooperation and collaboratively develop strategies to enhance resilience to climate change and changes in the cryosphere.

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06 November 2024

UN support to Turkmenistan’s National Commitments to Sustainable Development Goals Transformation Highlighted at TIF 2024

The event gathered a wide array of participants, including international experts, representatives from leading national and international companies in oil and gas, energy, construction, transport, and communications, as well as international organizations, financial institutions, and research centers. The forum also featured an exhibition on the integration of high technologies and innovations to enhance Turkmenistan’s economy. During the plenary session, discussions centered on Turkmenistan’s economic development and its vast investment potential. The UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko emphasized that investing in human capital is a key driver of social and economic progress. Strategic, evidence-based investments in human development can yield significant returns, and Turkmenistan’s commitment to financing key programs, including those supported by the United Nations, is an important step forward. Ms. Gwi Yeop Son, Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia of the UN Development Coordination Office, in her video statement stressed that according to the joint analysis an SDG financing gap amounts to 2.8 % of GDP annually during 2026-2030 (around 13 billion USD over the period) to achieve National Commitments to Sustainable Development Goals Transformation.The forum also highlighted Turkmenistan's leadership in addressing climate change. The establishment of the Regional Center for Climate Change Technologies in Central Asia (RCCT-CA), with the support of the UN in Turkmenistan, demonstrates the country’s commitment to promoting energy transition and green technologies. This initiative will play a crucial role in advancing the region’s environmental sustainability and addressing global climate challenges. Additionally, the UN Resident Coordinator moderated discussions on the development of the green economy, emphasizing the importance of sustainable economic practices for regional and global progress. A transition to a green economy offers numerous benefits, including environmental preservation, public health improvements, and job creation. Participants reaffirmed their support for Turkmenistan’s initiatives in promoting energy efficiency, renewable energy, and technological innovation, all of which are integral to fostering a more sustainable future. Mr. Shlapachenko also engaged in discussions on renewable energy sources, underscoring the importance of solar, wind, and other clean energy technologies in reducing Turkmenistan’s carbon footprint and ensuring long-term energy sustainability. The forum served as a valuable platform for exploring investment opportunities and international cooperation in these areas, reinforcing Turkmenistan's position as a leader in green energy development.The Turkmen Investment Forum 2024 provided a vital platform for dialogue on sustainable economic development, investment opportunities, and the advancement of international partnerships in areas such as energy, climate change, and sustainable development. The UN in Turkmenistan remains fully committed to supporting the country’s development goals and strengthening cooperation to build a more sustainable and prosperous future.

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06 November 2024

UN Agencies Host Side Event on Integrated national financing frameworks for Financing the Sustainable Development Goals at TIF 2024

The session provided an opportunity for participants to explore innovative financial mechanisms and share experiences on how to strengthen the country's capacity to mobilize resources for sustainable development. The discussions centered around identifying challenges, opportunities, and potential partnerships that can drive forward the successful implementation of SDG financing frameworks. Vladimir Valetka, UN Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO) Economist, presented findings of the SDG gaps analysis conducted jointly with the Ministry of Finance and Economy and Statistics Committee. In his remarks, Mr. Valetka briefly reviewed Turkmenistan’s progress on SDG implementation, reflecting on the global context and challenges facing many countries. He and other presenters from UNCTAD, UNDP and FAO outlined key lessons learned from both national and international efforts, highlighting successful approaches to sustainable development financing. With only 17 % of SDGs on track globally, the UN has agreed on SDG acceleration by prioritizing six key SDG transitions – interlinked and with high potential for systemic impact in most countries, including Turkmenistan. These transitions are rooted in the SDGs and include: (1) food security and water management; (2) green energy transition; (3) digital connectivity; (4) education; (5) jobs and social protection; and (6) climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. In addition, UNCT and the Government prioritized (7) universal health coverage and (8) peace, justice and institutions.Mr. Valetka’s presentation touched on the importance of well-designed and evidence-based integrated financial strategies in achieving the SDGs. He emphasized the need for innovative solutions and stronger collaboration between government entities, the private sector, and international partners to bridge an estimated financing gap of 2.8% of GDP annually up to 2030, essential for achieving the National Commitments to Sustainable Development Goals Transformation. These are substantive investments and 44% of them would focus on boosting human capital and supporting the most vulnerable. Another 37% would be required to enable economic transformation through structural changes by moving labor and other resources from lower- to higher-productivity sectors (from agriculture to manufacturing and renewables) and raising within-sector productivity growth (digitalization, green economy and transforming food systems). Apparently, successful economic transformation would require smart macroeconomic and structural policies, including deregulation, eliminating corruption, privatization and private sector development, better investment climate. The remaining 19% of the financing gap would be required to support the environmental pillar of development by adapting to and mitigating climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. The Government can use these findings along with the development finance assessment to develop and implement a roadmap and financing strategies for implementing the integrated national financing framework (INFF). The side event underscored the UN’s continued commitment to supporting Turkmenistan in strengthening national financing mechanisms, promoting public-private partnerships, and aligning financial flows with the SDGs. Participants agreed that fostering a more inclusive and strategic approach to SDG financing and reducing data gaps is critical to advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This session represents an important milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the UN and the Government of Turkmenistan to develop sustainable and resilient financing strategies for the country’s future development. Specifically, the discussions will inform the UN programming, including the design of the new Cooperation Framework for 2026-2030. The UN will continue to work closely with national partners to consolidate financial resources and ensure that funding is effectively channeled towards key SDG priorities.

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