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08 March 2024
THE UN SECRETARY-GENERAL'S MESSAGE FOR THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
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24 February 2024
Turkmenistan Takes Stride Towards Sustainable Development with Launch of UN-Private Sector Partnerships Platform
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24 February 2024
The ‘invisible’ patients during emergencies deserve our attention
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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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19 February 2024
SDG Ambassadors Recognized for Contributions Towards Sustainable Development Goals in Turkmenistan
February 15, 2024, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan - The UN Resident Coordinator Office (UN RCO) in Turkmenistan organized the Awarding Ceremony of Sustainable Development Goals' Young Ambassadors (SDG Ambassadors). This event celebrated the remarkable achievements of the 2022-2024 cohort in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Turkmenistan. SDG Ambassadors, an initiative of the UN RCO jointly with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Finance and Economy, mobilize the youth of Turkmenistan to foster awareness and understanding of the SDGs in the country. Each ambassador is a socially active leader within their local community, advocating for one Global Goal and disseminating information on sustainable development among youth. The ceremony, held at the UN premises, brought together over 60 young individuals, including students from universities across the country, as well as other interested participants. It served as a platform to honor the dedication and impact of the SDG Ambassadors, whose commitment has significantly contributed to the country's progress towards sustainable development. Through various initiatives, projects, and advocacy efforts, these ambassadors have demonstrated exemplary leadership and initiative in addressing key societal and environmental challenges. "These young individuals are the true heroes of our time, who are not afraid of challenges and believe in a brighter future" stated Mr. Dmitry SHLAPACHENKO, the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan. "Their tireless efforts, enthusiasm, and innovative approach have played a crucial role in raising awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals in the country and mobilizing society for collective achievement of these goals".Since 2019, over 100 enthusiasts from all over Turkmenistan have participated in the SDG Ambassadors contest, aiming to serve as Ambassadors for the Sustainable Development Goals. The current 3rd cohort of 18 members for 2022-2024 will conclude its mission in July this year, eagerly looking forward to passing the SDG Ambassador baton to their successors.Today’s event also looked towards the future. As the UN RCO will soon announce the selection of new SDG Ambassadors for the 2024-2025 cohort, the event sought to raise awareness of SDG Ambassadors' activities among young participants interested in joining the next cohort. Ms. Sabrina Guseynova, currently serving as an intern with UNICEF in Turkmenistan, shared insights into their journey as an SDG Ambassador, highlighting the transformative impact of their initiatives. "Being an SDG Ambassador has been a truly rewarding experience. Through our collective efforts, we have been able to raise awareness, inspire action, and make tangible progress towards achieving the SDGs. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to positive change in my community and beyond." Today SDG Ambassadors are invited to high level events conducted by national and international organizations in Turkmenistan where they present their vision and advocate for sustainable development where “no one is left behind”. Becoming an SDG Ambassador presents an exceptional opportunity for passionate and motivated individuals to actively engage in shaping a better tomorrow for Turkmenistan and beyond. The journey of the SDG Ambassadors exemplifies the power of youth in driving positive change and building a more sustainable future. Their role is crucial in Turkmenistan's pursuit of the SDGs by 2030. As we celebrate their achievements, the UN Country Team in Turkmenistan continues to support and empower the next generation of leaders in their quest to create a better world for all. Learn more about the SDG Ambassadors' achievements in a complementary article by News Central Asia: https://www.newscentralasia.net/2024/02/16/un-rco-turkmenistan-holds-ward-ceremony-for-sdg-ambassadors-completing-their-tenure/
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18 January 2024
Government of Turkmenistan, civil society and humanitarians discuss refugee emergency response
November 23, 2023 – Fifteen representatives of the Government of Turkmenistan, the National Red Crescent Society, civil society and United Nations organizations came together in Ashgabat to discuss emergency response in case of mass influx of refugees.
Facilitated by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, within the framework of its joint annual workplan with the Government Turkmenistan, the workshop sought to familiarise participants with the principles of international refugee protection, border management and identification of vulnerable groups, and humanitarian coordination mechanisms.
The workshop was opened by Atabayev Gurban, Head of the Department of Civil Defense Training and Retraining of the Ministry of Defense of Turkmenistan; Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan; and Maral Achilova, Chairperson of the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan.
“In the last decade, the number of displaced people globally exceeded 100 million – 34.6 million of whom are refugees. This highlights the special necessity to have mechanisms in place to respond in case of emergency," said Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan. "This workshop demonstrates the commitment of Turkmenistan to address challenges caused by a large-scale refugee crisis, and ensure a holistic approach to coordination between government, civil society and international organizations, and responding in line with international standards.”
Held the day after a UNHCR-led session for authorities and humanitarian partners on Statelessness Determination Procedures, the emergency workshop marked the successful completion of UNHCR activities within the UNHCR-Government of Turkmenistan 2023 joint workplan.
Turkmenistan currently hosts 13 refugees and 3,351 stateless people. UNHCR supports the Government of Turkmenistan’s protection of forcibly displaced and stateless people, and its securing of sustainable solutions to their plight.
Across Central Asia, UNHCR focuses on strengthening local ownership and quality of asylum systems; promoting the local integration of refugees; supporting the eradication of statelessness; and collaborating with partners on emergency preparedness and response.
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06 November 2023
The young generation of Turkmenistan is ready to contribute to solving issues related to climate change
The Government of Turkmenistan, in cooperation with the UN Resident Coordinator's Office in Turkmenistan, the Embassies of Great Britain and the United Arab Emirates, organized the National Conference of Youth on climate change. The event, held on November 3, 2023 in Ashgabat, was an important milestone in educating the youth of Turkmenistan on critical climate issues and turning them into active partners in the global fight against climate change.
The Conference of Youth on climate change, which was attended by more than 200 young people from all over Turkmenistan, was held in anticipation of the global Conference of Youth (COY18) and the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) of the UN Framework Convention on climate change. The purpose of the conference was to raise awareness among younger generations about climate change, its impact on socio-economic development and environmental sustainability and biodiversity, as well as to develop common approaches to the implementation of advanced solutions that promote adaptation to and mitigation of climate change-related impacts.
One of the innovations of the annual Youth Climate Conference this year was the holding of regional meetings in the cities of Dashoguz, Mary and Turkmenabat, which expanded the scope of the conference beyond the capital. Young SDGs Ambassadors and environmental activists interacted with youth from these regions, facilitating the exchange of ideas and providing an opportunity for the most active participants to show their projects at the final conference.
During the discussions, the youth of Turkmenistan showed their determination to become active participants in the global movement to prevent further climate change. An assessment was made of the progress made since the second Local Conference of Youth on climate change (LCOY), held in Ashgabat in 2022. In addition, representatives of Turkmen youth prepared proposals for future projects in Turkmenistan, which became part of the Roadmap for 2024.
The Conference of Youth on climate change also contributed to the creation of a robust network of highly motivated youth climate change activists from across Turkmenistan. This network aims to expand, strengthen and provide further support to projects of young people, promote cooperation and knowledge exchange, and will become a platform for promoting climate action in Turkmenistan and beyond.
Based on the results of discussions at the conference, the final National statement of the Youth of Turkmenistan was adopted. This statement reflects the requests of the youth of Turkmenistan and the views of young participants on the UNFCCC processes, national policy issues and other topics related to climate change in Turkmenistan and in the world. The National Youth Statement will be launched at COY18 and will form part of the official YOUNGO global position at COP28 in Dubai.
The final Conference of Youth on climate change in Turkmenistan represents a significant step forward in empowering youth and mobilizing their collective efforts to combat climate change.
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The Conference of Youth (COY) is an annual event that brings together young people from around the world to discuss and address issues related to climate change. COY18 is the 18th conference and will serve as a platform for youth engagement and activation ahead of the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
The UN Framework convention on climate change (UNFCCC) is an international environmental treaty aimed at preventing dangerous anthropogenic impacts on the climate system. It provides a framework for international cooperation on climate change mitigation and adaptation measures. The highest decision-making body under the UNFCCC is the Conference of the parties.
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17 October 2023
Empowering the Turkmen youth: Conference of Youth on Climate Change focuses on water resources
In the run-up to the Conference of Youth (COY18) and the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, a Conference of Youth on Climate Change was held in Turkmenistan, organized by the Government of Turkmenistan jointly with the Embassies of Great Britain and United Arab Emirates, the UN Mission in Turkmenistan. The event, which took place at the Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute named after Seyitnazar Seydi in Turkmenabat, was dedicated to youth participation in discussions on the impacts of climate change on water resources in the Central Asian region, and in particular, the Amy Darya River.
The Youth Change on Climate Conference was designed to inspire young leaders from Turkmenistan to actively participate in processes where their views and proposals can be heard by regional leaders and decision-makers. The event highlighted the critical importance of addressing the impact of climate change on water resources, which is a vital issue for the sustainability and future well-being of the region.
The conference brought together Representatives of various UN agencies, representatives of the British Embassy and the Deputy Head of Mission to Turkmenistan Mr. Martin Walley, representatives of the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates, young people aged 17 to 30, SDG ambassadors, lecturers and students of the Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute named after Seyitnazar Seydi, as well as national partners: specialists of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Environmental Protection, educational centers, and experts on climate change and environmental protection, including representatives of public organizations.
As part of the discussions, young speakers presented several interesting topics, including “Promoting sustainable agricultural development and food security by improving sustainable water management”, “Promoting sustainable and circular consumption”, and “Water safety and efficiency”. During the discussions, interesting points were made about the relationship between climate change, water resources, sustainable agriculture, and responsible consumption. Moreover, discussions on topics related to environmental education took place at the conference as well. Participants emphasized the need to develop environmental education, which is the key to solving the problem of climate change.
The Conference once again emphasized the role of the younger generation as a key partner in the fight against climate change, inspired young people of Turkmenistan to actively participate in projects to combat climate change, and provided an opportunity to discuss and resolve the main issues related to climate change affecting the nature of Turkmenistan. By giving young people the opportunity to voice their thoughts and ideas, the Conference promoted dialogue and cooperation to solve the urgent problem of the impact of climate change on water resources, as well as the accessibility of environmental education for all, and became an important step in empowering the new generation to actively participate in shaping a sustainable and viable future for their country and the whole world.
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12 October 2023
On the way to COP28: youth of Turkmenistan discuss green energy projects
In the lead up to the Conference of Youth (COY18) and the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, a Conference of Youth on Climate Change was held in Turkmenistan, organized by the Government of Turkmenistan jointly with the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, Office of UNICEF in Turkmenistan and the Embassies of Great Britain and United Arab Emirates. The event, held at the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan in Mary, was aimed at turning the youth of Turkmenistan into active partners in the global fight against climate change.
The Conference of Youth on Climate Change was designed to inspire young leaders to take an active role in solving problems related to climate change, to make decisions in the field of renewable energy sources, and to support initiatives to create "green hydrogen". By attracting the youth of Turkmenistan, the conference sought to ignite a passion for combating climate change and instill a sense of responsibility for environmental sustainability.
The conference was attended by young people aged 17 to 30, SDG ambassadors, representatives of various UN agencies, representatives of the British Embassy and Ambassador Mr. Stephen Conlon, representatives of the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates, as well as national partners: specialists of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Environmental Protection, educational centers, and experts on climate change and environmental protection, including representatives of public organizations.
The conference featured young, dynamic speakers who touched on such important topics as “Promoting green, sustainable, and modern energy and technology.” These discussions provided valuable insights into the innovative approaches and technologies needed to effectively combat climate change.
A conference for children on climate change organized at the Algorithm Educational Center in Mary became an important event. For the first time in Central Asia, schoolchildren took part in the Conference, and their older comrades, young experts, and a specialist from the UNICEF Office in Turkmenistan told them about the main problems associated with climate change, instilling in them a sense of environmental responsibility from a very early age. The children's conference on climate change was organized by the Government of Turkmenistan together with the UNICEF Office in Turkmenistan.
The conference highlighted the role of the younger generation as a key partner in the fight against climate change, inspired young people of Turkmenistan to actively participate in projects aimed at combating climate change, and provided an opportunity to discuss and resolve key climate change issues affecting the nature of Turkmenistan. By promoting dialogue, knowledge exchange, and practical experience, the conference served as a platform that inspired meaningful change at both the local and global levels.
In a world facing ever-growing environmental challenges, and with youth as the key to a sustainable future, the Conference of Youth on Climate Change was a testament to the determination and enthusiasm of Turkmenistan's youth to create a greener and more sustainable planet.
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Press Release
24 February 2024
Turkmenistan Takes Stride Towards Sustainable Development with Launch of UN-Private Sector Partnerships Platform
The event was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from UN Agencies in Turkmenistan, the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan, ambassadors and staff from embassies in the country, heads and representatives from international organizations in Turkmenistan, and members of the country's private sector. The establishment of the platform provides a crucial forum for constructive dialogue and collaboration on sustainable development challenges. By facilitating discussions on key topics, the platform aims to foster innovative solutions that drive meaningful progress in Turkmenistan. It is designed to complement existing efforts and initiatives, providing a centralized hub for sharing knowledge, expertise, and resources."The establishment of the UN-Private Sector Partnerships Platform represents country’s private businesses’ commitment to inclusive and sustainable development," said Mr. Dmitry SHLAPACHENKO, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan. "Through collaboration and partnership, we can overcome challenges and work towards a brighter future for all." The central theme of the launch event was the importance of private sector involvement in the implementation of the Agenda 2030 and SDGs. Several speakers echoed the idea that by harnessing innovation, resources, and expertise of private businesses, Turkmenistan can accelerate progress toward its sustainable development.Moving forward, the platform will play a vital role in shaping the country’s development agenda and driving tangible outcomes. Regular meetings and discussions will ensure that stakeholders remain engaged and informed, fostering a culture of collaboration and sharing.
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Press Release
16 February 2024
Meeting of the Director of the Sustainable Energy Division of UNECE with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan
During the meeting, prospects for cooperation in the field of green energy, sustainable energy and reduction of methane emissions were discussed, as well as the results of the «“Hard Talk”: Synergies between renewable energy sources and natural gas in Turkmenistan» meeting held in Ashgabat the day before, were noted.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the participation of the Turkmen side, led by the President of Turkmenistan, at the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on the Climate Change COP-28 in Dubai and Turkmenistan’s commitment to solving global problems by joining the Global Methane Commitment.
Within this context, the parties mentioned the upcoming Global Methane Forum, which will be held in Geneva in March 2024, as well as a round table within the Forum to discuss measures to reduce methane emissions in Central Asia.
During the conversation, issues of interaction were also addressed in terms of UNECE proficient support in fields of solar and wind energy, along with the development and implementation of advanced energy storage and transmission technologies.
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Press Release
17 January 2024
WHO Supports Health Education in Turkmenistan Conducting Immunization Sessions for Secondary School Students
These activities were organized within the framework of the WHO-EU Central Asia COVID-19 Crisis Response (CACCR) Project and held in Ashgabat, Balkanabat, Turkmenbashi, Dashoguz, Koneurgench, Mary, Bayramaly, Turkmenabat and Kerki cities of Turkmenistan.
Kids across all Turkmenistan learned about important health topics from proper hand washing to more complex topics of immune system, vaccination and prevention of infectious diseases. During these sessions, schoolchildren were also introduced to the concept of the digital game called Immune Patrol. Developed by WHO for secondary school students, this educational game is intended to strengthen knowledge about immune system and a healthy lifestyle.
Schoolchildren who took part in the interactive sessions received memorable gifts from WHO.
These additional educational sessions in schools were designed to increase awareness of the children about the infectious diseases and the scope of its impact on health, as well as to help kids in taking preventive measures and sharing their healthy lifestyle attitude and confidence in the efficacy and safety of vaccines with their families and friends.
In 2024, WHO will continue to engage the youth of Turkmenistan in health and well-being activities as part of the #Youth4Health, a special initiative of the WHO Regional Director for Europe.
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Press Release
11 January 2024
WHO and USAID held a training on engaging communities in tuberculosis treatment
Led by prominent WHO expert Dr. Armen Hayrapetyan, the training focused on implementing a patient-centered model of medical care to effectively implement tuberculosis (TB) services delivery. Representatives of the Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Tuberculosis, TB department of the Turkmen State Medical University and the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan had a unique chance to gain knowledge and discuss the best ways to efficiently implement this model.
The participants also gained a deeper insight on key principles and guidelines for implementing community-based support services to improve tuberculosis treatment and prevention outcomes, integrating community engagement, human rights and gender considerations into all TB services.
Additionally, the training covered the topics such as community-based TB services and features of working with key and vulnerable groups of the population, including for people living in specific areas, the family approach to treating TB in children, providing TB support services during health emergencies, cost calculation methodology of the standardized package of community-based social services and its utilization.
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Press Release
28 December 2023
Turkmen youth presented their achievements in 2023
The event brought together Ms. Narine Sahakyan, UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan, and a.i. UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, representatives of ministries and government agencies of Turkmenistan, UN Agencies in Turkmenistan, the diplomatic corps in Turkmenistan, students and teachers of universities in the country.
The forum and multidisciplinary exhibition showcased the successes and achievements of Turkmen youth in 2023 in education, science, sports, culture, industry, agriculture, and other sectors of the economy. These achievements indicate the contribution of youth to the country's development, which is noticeable and significant for its authority. The event provided a platform for the exchange of experiences and ideas and encouraged collaboration between young leaders in different fields.
Ms. Narine Sahakyan, speaking at the event, underlined the importance of supporting youth and their contribution to sustainable development. Her participation in the event also highlighted the role of the UN Office in Turkmenistan in promoting and developing successful initiatives at the youth level.
Also, during the event, an official ceremony took place to present certificates awarded to Turkmenistan by specialized UN agencies for achievements in the field of youth policy, transport and health care. Ms. Narine Sahakyan presented the following awards to the Government of Turkmenistan:
Certificate of Apprecioation to the Children's Health and Rehabilitation Center named after Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov from the UNICEF Office in Turkmenistan;
Certificate for the significant efforts made by the Government of Turkmenistan to accelerate progress in health coverage by ensuring access to quality medicines, continuity and quality of medical services for all.
Three certificates from the WHO Supranational Reference Laboratory GAUTING in Munich, Germany, confirming the successful completion of an external assessment of the quality of molecular tests of the Centralized Laboratory of the Directorate of Infectious Disease Centers;
Certificate confirming the inclusion of the “Great Silk Road: Zarafshan-Karakum Corridor” site to the UNESCO World Heritage List;
Certificate confirming the inclusion of the multilateral nomination “Turanian deserts of the temperate zone” to the UNESCO World Heritage List;
The youth conference and exhibition became a landmark event that revealed the potential and prospects of Turkmen youth and also emphasized the country’s desire to achieve high standards in various fields.
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