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Turkmenistan and UNICEF discussed human capital development and support for young people
12.07.2026Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Belgium, held a meeting with Octavian Bivol, UNICEF Deputy Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia. This was reported by the press office of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. The parties discussed current cooperation and prospects for joint work in the areas of human capital development, the protection of children’s rights, support for young people and the improvement of social policy. During the meeting, it was emphasised that Turkmenistan regards cooperation with the UN and its specialised agencies as an important component of its contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The participants paid particular attention to investment in education, healthcare and social protection for children and young people as key factors for long-term socio-economic development. Octavian Bivol noted that more than half of Turkmenistan’s population is under 30, describing this as a significant advantage for the country’s future development. The parties agreed that supporting the younger generation would enable this demographic potential to be utilised as effectively as possible. A UNICEF initiative to hold a presentation in Brussels of the regional report ‘Generation 2050 in Central Asia’ was also discussed. The Ambassador of Turkmenistan supported this idea, proposing that the event be used as a platform for dialogue between the countries of Central Asia, European Union institutions, international financial organisations and development partners on issues relating to investment in human capital and the strengthening of regional cooperation. Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their readiness to further develop their partnership and implement joint regional initiatives.
309,000 square metres of housing were built in Turkmenistan in six months
12.07.2026At an extended meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, stated that the results for the first half of the year demonstrate the successful implementation of socio-economic development programmes and the utilisation of investments. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. According to the Head of State, GDP growth of 6.3 per cent was driven by high levels of construction and investment activity. Between January and June, 309,000 square metres of housing were completed in the velayats, cities and etraps. During the reporting period, 18.6 billion manats of capital investment was channelled into the country’s economy and infrastructure, which is 4.3 per cent more than in the previous year. Construction is continuing on industrial facilities, modern housing estates, schools, nurseries and other social institutions.
Research findings in the field of demography were presented in Ashgabat
12.07.2026A conference marking World Population Day was held in Ashgabat. The event, organised in collaboration with UNFPA and the Government of Turkmenistan, focused on demographic trends, sustainable development and gender equality, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. Participants discussed global changes in fertility rates, the findings of the MICS7 programme, a study on the population’s reproductive intentions, and the implementation of national initiatives in the field of human rights. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties outlined further areas for cooperation in the field of demographic policy.
A new commemorative medal has been established in Turkmenistan to mark the anniversary of independence
12.07.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has signed a Law establishing the commemorative medal ‘Türkmenistanyň Garaşsyzlygynyň 35 ýyllygyna bagyşlanyp geçirilen dabaraly harby ýörişe gatnaşyja’. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The new award is intended for military personnel and members of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies who have distinguished themselves in defending the country’s independence, sovereignty and constitutional order, as well as those who have contributed to the preparation and conduct of the celebratory military parade. The law came into force on the day of its signing. The medal is designed as a gold-plated octagon featuring elements of state symbolism, images of a map of Turkmenistan, the Independence Monument and the ‘Arkadag’ monument, as well as the commemorative inscription ‘XXXV’.
Turkmenistan and Belgium discussed cooperation on migration
11.07.2026Sapar Palvanov, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Belgium, held a meeting with Freddy Rosemont, Director-General of the Belgian Immigration Service. The parties discussed the development of cooperation between the immigration authorities of the two countries, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Particular attention was paid to the protection of citizens’ rights abroad, the exchange of expertise in the field of migration policy, and the strengthening of working relations between the relevant agencies. The possibility of drafting a bilateral agreement on cooperation in the field of migration was also considered. The Ambassador noted the increase in the international mobility of citizens and emphasised the importance of cooperation on issues relating to identity verification, the replacement of documents and consular assistance. The Belgian side expressed its readiness to develop cooperation, proposing to organise reciprocal visits by representatives of the two countries’ migration services to exchange experience. In addition, the participants discussed the possible simplification of visa procedures for holders of diplomatic and service passports in the context of developing Turkmenistan’s relations with the Benelux countries. Following the negotiations, the parties confirmed their intention to maintain contact and identify further areas of cooperation in the field of migration.
An initiative to improve children’s legal literacy has been implemented in Turkmenistan
11.07.2026More than 100 children from various regions of Turkmenistan took part in interactive sessions on children’s rights, held at summer camps in Turkmenabat, Tejen and the ‘Ýaşlyk’ centre in Gokdere. This was reported by the IIC. The initiative was organised by the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, the Ministry of Education’s Innovation and Information Centre, the Ombudsman’s Office and UNICEF. Through games, group discussions and creative activities, the children learnt about the key provisions of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, including the right to education, protection, participation and development. Participants also learnt about the work of national and international organisations in protecting children’s rights, and learnt how to express their opinions and respect the rights of others. UNICEF noted that such activities help children become more informed, confident and active members of society. The programme is being implemented as part of a partnership with the Government of Turkmenistan to support the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the National Action Plan for the Realisation of Children’s Rights for 2023–2028.
Turkmenistan is developing digital solutions in the field of population registration
11.07.2026A working meeting on the digitalisation of the civil registration and vital statistics (CRVS) system was held at the UN building in Ashgabat. This was reported by the IIC. The event was organised by the UNFPA Country Office in Turkmenistan in collaboration with the State Committee on Statistics as part of the work plans for 2026. Participants discussed international and regional experience in developing CRVS, improving data exchange between agencies, and introducing digital solutions into the demographic registration system. The meeting was attended by representatives of relevant ministries and agencies in Turkmenistan, as well as experts from the UNFPA Regional Office for Eastern Europe and Central Asia. During the discussion, issues relating to coordination between health, civil registration, statistics and home affairs authorities were examined, and further steps for the development of the digital population register were identified.
A UN initiative to strengthen peace was discussed in the capital of Turkmenistan
11.07.2026A briefing for diplomats and media representatives was held at the ‘Ýyldyz’ Hotel in Ashgabat, focusing on the UN General Assembly resolution ‘International Decade for Reinforcing Peace for Future Generations’. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The document, initiated by the President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, was adopted on 25 June. The Resolution proclaims the years 2027–2036 as the International Decade for the Consolidation of Peace, the Promotion of Dialogue and Mutual Trust. Tajikistan’s Ambassador, Vafo Niyatbekzoda, noted that the initiative is aimed at preventing conflicts, increasing youth participation in decision-making and safeguarding the interests of future generations. The experience of Central Asian countries in the peaceful resolution of border issues was cited as an example of the implementation of these principles.
Applications for the "Chevening" scholarship programme will be accepted in Ashgabat
10.07.2026The British Embassy in Ashgabat has announced that applications are now open for the Chevening Scholarship Programme for the 2027–2028 academic year. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The programme offers the opportunity to study at British universities and to be part of an international community of future leaders. Candidates who share the values of Chevening and have plans to carry out projects aimed at bringing about positive change in areas of importance to both Turkmenistan and the UK are eligible to apply. The application period runs from 4 August to 6 October.
Ashgabat discussed water resource management issues
10.07.2026An inter-ministerial meeting was held in Ashgabat to mark the 30th anniversary of the entry into force of the UNECE Water Convention. Participants discussed the development of water diplomacy, the modernisation of irrigation systems, the digitalisation of water management and the protection of ecosystems. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. Representatives of international organisations noted Turkmenistan’s contribution to strengthening cooperation in the field of water resources. Particular attention was paid to the introduction of modern irrigation technologies, the improvement of legislation and compliance with agreements on the use of the Amu Darya’s waters. Experts from Central Asian countries exchanged experiences in the areas of wastewater treatment, ensuring the supply of drinking water to the population, and improving the efficiency of water management. Participants emphasised the importance of regional cooperation in addressing water scarcity and ensuring sustainable development.
A new issue of the journal ‘Democracy and Law’ has been published in Turkmenistan
09.07.2026The latest issue of the quarterly scientific and applied journal ‘Democracy and Law’, published by the Institute of State, Law and Democracy of Turkmenistan, has been released in Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The publication, available in Turkmen, English and Russian, focuses on issues relating to the country’s domestic and foreign policy, legislation, international cooperation, and scientific, educational and youth policy. The first article in this issue features a speech by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, at the Regional Environmental Summit in Astana on 22 April 2026. In it, he emphasised the need for a systematic approach to issues of environmental protection, climate change and regional environmental security. Also published is the speech by the President of Turkmenistan at the meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Founding Members of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS). The Head of State emphasised the importance of a comprehensive solution to environmental problems relating to the Aral region, water resources and climate change, and proposed strengthening cooperation within the framework of regional mechanisms. Particular attention is given to the address by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, at the International Vienna Energy and Climate Forum. The article reflects Turkmenistan’s position on energy security and sustainable development, as well as the initiative to develop an ‘Energy Code’ under the auspices of the UN. A significant part of this issue is devoted to education, science and youth policy. The articles examine the development of scientific and educational cooperation, the role of young people in the civil service and support for young professionals. The magazine also features articles on the legal framework for cooperation in the field of women’s rights in Central Asia and Turkmenistan’s international educational cooperation. The issue concludes with the traditional ‘Chronicle’ section.
The UNICEF Climate Summer School has begun in Turkmenistan
09.07.2026UNICEF, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan, has launched the second Summer School on climate change for young people. This was reported by the news agency Orient. This year, 35 young people aged between 16 and 25 from all regions of the country took part in the programme. They were selected through a competitive process from among 150 candidates. The course comprises four thematic modules focusing on sustainable water management, biodiversity conservation, combating desertification, greening cities and waste recycling. The sessions are led by national and international experts. The programme also includes interactive training sessions, team projects and field trips. Zhanar Sagimbayeva, Deputy Representative of UNICEF in Turkmenistan, highlighted the importance of youth participation in addressing climate issues. In 2026, the Summer School served as a preparatory platform for the LCOY Turkmenistan 2026 National Youth Climate Conference. Participants will draft a National Youth Statement for the COP31 climate summit and present their environmental initiatives. The best projects submitted by graduates will receive expert support from UNICEF for implementation at a local level.
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