Children and youth at the center of Turkmenistan's climate agenda
A round table organized by UNICEF jointly with the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan was held in Ashgabat on August 27. The focus of the discussions was on children and youth, who are not only the most vulnerable to climate threats, but also the main architects of the country's sustainable future.
The meeting, which brought together representatives of government agencies, public organizations and international UNICEF experts, focused on the preparation of the third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0). This document will become Turkmenistan's key roadmap in the fight against climate change.
Why children and youth?
Today, almost half of the population of Turkmenistan — about 3.2 million people — are children and young people under 24. They are the ones who will have to live with the consequences of climate decisions being made now. Therefore, their views, energy and participation are absolutely necessary for national climate goals to be truly sustainable and take into account the long-term interests of future generations.
Key areas and tasks
The participants of the round table discussed such important areas as:
Climate Education: How to Teach the Younger Generation to Understand and Respond to the Challenges of Climate Change.
Energy Efficiency: How to Make Schools and Kindergartens Greener and Safer.
Health and Environment: Protecting Children's Health in a Changing Climate.
Water and Sanitation: Ensuring Access to Clean Water and Adequate Sanitation.
Nutrition and Social Protection: How to Adapt These Systems to New Climate Realities.
UNICEF experts presented specific approaches to assessing the necessary resources and finding sources of funding, which gives the initiative practical value.
Joining forces for a sustainable future
The round table was attended by representatives of key ministries: ecology, finance and economy, education, health, labor and social protection, energy and construction, as well as youth organizations. Their proposals will form the basis of NDC 3.0, ensuring a comprehensive and interdepartmental approach.
UNICEF continues its long-term work to support Turkmenistan's efforts to combat climate change. The international organization strives to ensure that national climate strategies not only take into account the rights and interests of children, but also give young people the opportunity to become active drivers of positive change.
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