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Press Release
13 December 2024
Human Rights Youth Festival dedicated to International Human Rights Day in Ashgabat
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Press Release
13 December 2024
IOM Strengthens National Partners’ Capacity in Emergency Response and Site Management
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Press Release
11 December 2024
WHO enhances the national capacity on influenza virus sequencing
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The Sustainable Development Goals 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 November 2024
Third Inclusive Festival Promotes Diversity and Inclusion in Ashgabat in Celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities
With the support from the Government of Turkmenistan, the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO) and and the Office of UN High Commissioner on Human Rights Regional Office for Central Asia (OHCHR ROCA) in collaboration with UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, IOM, UN Volunteers and local NGOs and youth activists, successfully hosted the third annual Inclusive Festival “We are different- We are equal”, on 9 November at the 1st Park in Ashgabat. The event brought together diverse segments of the community to celebrate inclusion, promote human rights, and highlight the importance of solidarity in Turkmenistan. This year’s event was held in anticipation of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, highlighting the importance of promoting inclusion and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities in Turkmen society.The festival brought together more than 300 representatives from government agencies, civil society organizations, diplomatic community, youth groups, and the general public, creating a vibrant and welcoming space for dialogue, creativity, and inclusiveness. The event was dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of the rights of persons with disabilities and encouraging active community engagement to ensure no one is left behind. The civil society organizations included National Red Crescent Society, Deaf and Blind Society of Turkmenistan, Central Physical and Sports Club of the Disabled People of Turkmenistan, Yenme, Center for Support of People with Disabilities, Agama, National Center of Special Olympics, National Federation of Gymnastics, Young Naturalist and UN Young SDG Ambassadors. Private sector also supported the festival. The festival featured various activities, including inclusive sports, including chess for people with visual disabilities, rock climbing, arts and crafts, live performances, and games designed to inspire dialogue on equality, gender and social inclusion. The music and dance performances, and exhibitions of art and crafts made by people with disabilities made the festival brighter and more cheerful. The event featured youth-led initiatives aimed at raising awareness about social issues, including disability rights, gender equality, and environmental protection. Speaking at the event, Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator, emphasized: "The Inclusive Festival is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds, has a place in society. This festival is not just a celebration but a call to action to create a more inclusive and just world for all."The festival also provided a platform for civil society organizations to share their experiences, best practices, and innovative solutions for promoting inclusivity. Through creative performances and interactive dialogues, young activists showcased their dedication to building a more inclusive future in Turkmenistan.“The annual inclusive Festival proved that this is a great, welcome celebration of inclusivity, equality and dignity of everyone. It was very interesting, and we had a great time together. There are many bright, happy memories of this event,” shared Elchin Gulamov, a representative of the Society of deaf and blind people of Turkmenistan and a talented singer.The event concluded with a vibrant flashmob by young volunteers performing a song in sign language. Participants left the festival energized and motivated to continue working together toward a society where no one is left behind.
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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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Press Release
13 December 2024
Human Rights Youth Festival dedicated to International Human Rights Day in Ashgabat
25 young women and men, SDG Ambassadors and youth activists from civil society organizations learned about UN human rights mechanisms and international approaches to equality and non-discrimination. The participants also discussed the priorities of the UN Youth 2030 Strategy, the OHCHR Youth Rights Advocacy Toolkit, and learnt about the OHCHR Youth Advisory Board of OHCHR and the Education Above All Foundation. The participants exchanged ideas on joint projects with Shukurgeldi Myradov, SDG Ambassador of 2023 cohort, the Central Asian member of the OHCHR Youth Advisory Board. Shukurgeldi, highlighted that the Board is an important platform that connects like-minded human rights advocates, and promotes strengthening youth networks and amplifying the voices of youth from Central Asia. The Festival culminated with a screening and discussion of the film “High Tide Don't Hide” as part of the International Human Rights Film Tour organized by OHCHR in cooperation with the The International Film Festival and Forum for Human Rights. “Young people play a crucial role in the promotion and protection of human rights. It is essential to create conditions and opportunities that encourage their active participation in decision-making processes, which is key to ensuring that their rights are upheld” said Sabina Akhmetzhanova, national program officer on youth of the OHCHR Regional Office for Central Asia during the Human Rights Festival in Turkmenistan. ***More on Youth Advisory Board: Young leaders join forces in a new Youth Advisory Board | OHCHRMore on OHCHR Youth Rights Advocacy Toolkit: https://youth4yes.com/
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Press Release
13 December 2024
IOM Strengthens National Partners’ Capacity in Emergency Response and Site Management
Trainings were held in the premises of the Ashgabat and Turkmenabat City Departments of Civil Defense and Rescue Operations equipped with relevant visuals and rooms to accommodate the combination of theoretical modules with practical exercises tailored to the learning needs of participants.In the course of two 3-day trainings in Ashgabat and Turkmenabat, national partners from relevant government agencies were updated on the principles of emergency response and site management, emphasizing preparedness for large-scale crises such as earthquakes. With guidance and support of facilitators, participants explored essential theoretical modules, including humanitarian principles, site setup and management, community participation and protection in emergencies. “Today, more than ever, it is important to understand, respond and reduce the risks of emergencies, which necessitate the evacuation of the population, their temporary accommodation, and ensuring their livelihoods,” Mr. Aklyyev Annaguly, Head of the Emergency Analysis and Planning Unit of the Civil Defense and Rescue Operations Department of the Ministry of Defense of Turkmenistan noted.Practical simulation exercises complemented the theoretical modules, focusing on site coordination during mass displacement of people and applying technical standards in site planning and management. In the interactive environment, participants practiced establishing and managing sites for displaced persons, migrants and people requiring temporary accommodation after evacuations, playing the specific roles in site management, community participation structures and the process of site closure. All participants were awarded with certificates confirming their successful completion of training. They were also provided with training reading materials and videos for further learning and distribution among staff of their respective agencies.*** The training on Essentials of Emergency Response and Site Management was held as part of IOM’s regional project in Turkmenistan “Comprehensive Action Plan for Afghanistan and Neighboring Countries”. The project aims to provide comprehensive support to Afghan migrants living in Turkmenistan and local communities, especially women and girls, to ensure long-term sustainable development at the local level. 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. 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 also supported renovation and reequipment of a medical facility in Parahatchylyk village of Akhal velayat. 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.
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Press Release
13 December 2024
WHO enhances the national capacity on influenza virus sequencing
The main objective of the technical advisory mission was to conduct a training course for laboratory specialists of the Virology Reference Laboratory of the Center for Public Health and Nutrition - the National Influenza Center (NIC) of Turkmenistan on next-generation sequencing using the Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) platform of influenza viruses. Over the course of the training course the participants had an opportunity to gain deeper insights into the processes of submitting sequences for alignment in GISAID and using analytical databases for sequence analysis. They also learned to manage bioinformatics, which is collecting consensus sequence data from read source sequences and quality assessment of the resulting sequencing data, including data transfer from MinION Mk1C, running QC, alignment subtraction for reference, visualization, statistics, and consensus sequence generation.In addition to this, the mission provided technical advisory support and recommendations to the NIC on strengthening laboratory surveillance in the field of respiratory virus sequencing. Dr. Komissarov and Mr. Fadeev provided valuable recommendations on enhancing sequencing and bioinformatics infrastructure to ensure long-term sustainability and effectiveness in viral surveillance.The mission was provided through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) framework Partnership Contribution Implementation Plan, component Laboratory & Surveillance and has marked an important milestone in improving the country’s public health infrastructure and preparedness for emerging respiratory viruses. The WHO will continue to collaborate with Turkmenistan in building capacity and ensuring that the tools and knowledge gained through this mission will help strengthen global health security.
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Press Release
13 December 2024
Collaborative Action for effective development cooperation: Highlights from the Development Partners Coordination Group Meeting
Moderated by the UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko, the gathering brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the Government of Turkmenistan, Ambassadors, foreign embassy delegates, international organizations, and Heads of UN Agencies in Turkmenistan.A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation by Mr. Rovshen Annaberdiyev, Head of the Department of International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He outlined the government’s priorities for 2025, emphasizing Turkmenistan’s focus on the implementation of a series of events and activities dedicated to the celebration of the International Year of Peace and Trust. Representatives from embassies and international organizations reaffirmed their dedication to supporting initiatives aligned with national priorities and the SDGs. The Co-chairs of five DPCG working groups on Human Rights and Governance, Sustainable Economy and Finance, Environment and Climate Action, Health and Social Protection, and Education also reviewed key achievements in 2024 and outlined plans for 2025. A robust general discussion followed, with development partners sharing insights and proposing collaborative strategies for the upcoming year.This productive meeting reaffirmed the commitment of Turkmenistan and its international partners to sustainable development. The shared expertise and pledges of support laid the groundwork for meaningful progress towards achieving the SDGs, contributing to both national and global development efforts.The Development Partners Coordination Group serves as a vital platform for collaboration, enabling stakeholders to align their efforts, share knowledge, and enhance the efficiency of development initiatives in Turkmenistan. By working together, these partners aim to ensure impactful and sustainable progress across various sectors.
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Press Release
13 December 2024
USAID and WHO Strengthen Tuberculosis Control in Turkmenistan
The USAID project helped introduce shorter, all-oral treatment regimens, which reduces treatment duration for drug-resistant TB patients from 18 months to just 6–9 months. This improvement has not only raised treatment adherence but also minimized side effects, significantly enhancing the quality of life of patients.With WHO and USAID support, the NTP launched the Tuberculosis Recording and Reporting System (TB-RRIS), a digital system that enables real-time monitoring of TB cases and treatment progress, as well as data-driven decisions for health professionals.Moreover, with the support of the USAID project and in accordance with WHO’s guidance, Turkmenistan, the first in the region, is pioneering joint treatment protocols for managing DR-TB and hepatitis C. WHO specialists conducted operational research to advance the use of shorter, safer DR-TB regimens, with potential applications across Central Asia.With USAID sponsorship and the guidance of WHO experts, Turkmenistan's TB protocols now align with the latest WHO guidelines on screening, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of TB. This ongoing update process ensures that Turkmenistan’s TB program adheres to cutting-edge standards and maximizes treatment success.In addition, the joint USAID-WHO partnership builds national capacities on community-based TB support services and facilitates regional collaboration, empowering local health workers to deliver patient-centered care to vulnerable populations and connecting national expertise with regional best practices.All these measures help strengthen national healthcare service delivery capacities and reduce the TB incidents across the country. By 2025, USAID and WHO aim to provide shorter treatment options for 80% of DR-TB patients in Turkmenistan. This international collaboration, strengthened by regional partnerships and capacity building, positions Turkmenistan as a leading country in TB control in Central Asia, illustrating the power of partnerships in building resilient healthcare systems.***In partnership with the Government of Turkmenistan and the WHO, USAID’s “Accelerating Efforts to Reduce TB and DR-TB in Turkmenistan” project strengthens national TB control by advancing prevention, detection, and treatment, particularly for drug-resistant TB. This initiative expands rapid diagnostics and WHO-led community TB services, supporting Turkmenistan’s National Tuberculosis Program and aligning with the USAID Global TB Strategy 2023-2030 to improve public health outcomes across the country.
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Where we work: The UN’s programmatic interventions
The UN is implementing 0 Programmatic interventions during the ongoing programme cycle. The map below displays the number of programmatic interventions* per location (note that an programmatic intervention may be linked to more than one location). Using the filters below, click on the number on the map to get a summary description of the various programmatic interventions.
*Programmatic interventions are also commonly referred to as 'sub-outputs', see the JWP Guidance tip sheet 2019 definitionLatest Resources
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