UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, Regina de Dominicis, concluded an official visit to Turkmenistan, during which the country's strong commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of the younger generation was reaffirmed. The visit included a series of government-level meetings and visits to social facilities in Ashgabat and the regions.

In Ashgabat, Regina de Dominicis held talks with Deputy Prime Ministers Bayramgul Orazdurdyeva and Khodjamyrat Geldimyradov. The parties discussed in detail strengthening the partnership within the framework of the new Country Cooperation Programme for 2026–2030, focusing on early childhood development, support for children with disabilities, and the creation of climate-resilient "green schools." A key part of the dialogue was the discussion of mechanisms for state financing of social programs benefiting children.

Human rights monitoring was a particular focus during the visit. At meetings with the Commissioner for Human Rights in Turkmenistan, Yazdursun Gurbannazarova, UNICEF confirmed its readiness to continue supporting the implementation of the recommendations of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child.

The practical portion of the visit allowed the Regional Director to personally observe the results of investments in maternal and child health. In Mary velayat, Regina de Dominicis met with governor Dovranberdi Annaberdyev, and also visited the velayat's children's hospital and Health Center No. 3. In Ashgabat, she visited Pilot Inclusive School No. 74, where she spoke with teachers and students, noting the effectiveness of individualized support in creating an equal learning environment.

Summarizing the visit, Regina de Dominicis emphasized that systemic measures such as developmental screening and the development of inclusive education are already yielding tangible results. She expressed confidence that close cooperation between UNICEF and the Government of Turkmenistan will enable every child in the country to realize their potential in a peaceful and sustainable environment.

ORIENT