Representatives of the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan (NRCS) took part in the 2nd Volunteer Camp and experience-sharing programme organised by the Turkic Red Network (TRN) Secretariat with the support of the Turkish Red Crescent. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal.

Representatives from Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Hungary, Cyprus, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan and Turkey took part in the events. The NRCS delegation comprised three volunteers from the Balkan and Lebap velayats and Ashgabat, as well as two staff members of the organisation.

The volunteer camp took place from 31 August to 5 September on Heybeliada Island, whilst the experience-sharing programme ran from 6 to 12 September in Istanbul. The camp was aimed at developing the volunteers’ leadership skills and strengthening cooperation between national societies. The programme included seminars and practical sessions on providing assistance during emergencies.

As part of the practical exercises, an earthquake simulation was carried out: participants, who had been assigned roles in advance, administered first aid, worked in the emergency response centre, pitched tents and organised meals for those affected.

In the evenings, the delegations showcased the national culture and traditions of their countries, as well as the activities of their national Red Crescent Societies. The Turkmenistan delegation gave a presentation on Ahal-Teke horses, timed to coincide with the Year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ and the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence.

The experience-sharing programme in Istanbul was designed for staff of national societies and included practical training in emergency preparedness and response, as well as the exchange of expertise in the areas of volunteering, disaster risk reduction and strengthening community resilience.