Within the framework of the joint project between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Central Election Commission (CEC) of Turkmenistan “Assistance in Capacity Building of the Central Commission for Holding Elections and Referendums in Turkmenistan,” a roundtable and training workshop on “Temporary Special Measures (TSMs) to Expand Women’s Participation in Political and Public Life” was held in Ashgabat.

The workshop, held on 8–9 December 2025, brought together representatives from the CEC, local electoral commissions, and political parties, including the Democratic Party of Turkmenistan, the Party of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, and the Agrarian Party of Turkmenistan. The event aimed to build capacities, share international best practices, and explore ways to increase women’s political participation through Temporary Special Measures, including legislative quotas.

During the workshop, participants received both practical and theoretical knowledge from an international expert and engaged in discussions on the draft Analysis and Recommendations on the Introduction of Temporary Special Measures in Turkmenistan.

"Temporary Special Measures, recognized under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), are a proven tool to break barriers and ensure women’s fair participation in political life. By introducing quotas and placement rules, countries in Central Asia, including Turkmenistan, are achieving visible results, and advancing global commitments under CEDAW and the SDGs," said Tomica Paovic, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Turkmenistan, opening the event.

The event is part of Turkmenistan’s ongoing efforts to implement the National Action Plan on Gender Equality and fulfill its commitments under CEDAW and the Sustainable Development Goals. UNDP will continue to support Turkmenistan in promoting Temporary Special Measures to expand women’s participation in political and public life, strengthening monitoring and accountability, investing in leadership development, and enhancing coordination among national institutions and development partners to ensure inclusive, representative, and gender-responsive governance.

ORIENT