UNFPA in Turkmenistan, in collaboration with the Institute of State, Law, and Democracy of Turkmenistan and the OSCE Center in Ashgabat, organized a series of roundtable discussions with the velayat governance level aimed at the monitoring of the implementation of the National Action Plan on Gender Equality for 2021-2025 and familiarizing with the Concluding observations of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women, presented to the country after reviewing the sixth Periodic Report. Scheduled from May 7 to June 6, 2024, these discussions took place in five regions, with the final roundtable held in Ashgabat city, bringing together key stakeholders to review and advance gender equality initiatives.
Approximately 120 participants, including representatives from the administration, local governance, and civil society organizations at the regional and city levels—such as hyakimliks, parliament, regional councils of the women's union, youth organization, education, health, employment, social protection, lawyers, prosecutor’s offices, and police—engaged in these discussions.
Participants discussed the progress and challenges in implementing the National Action Plan (NAP) on Gender Equality 2021-2025, as well as CEDAW Concluding observations to ensure that efforts align with national and international gender equality standards. It was acknowledged that gender equality is an integral part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5: “Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”. SDG 5 is essential for creating a more equitable, just, and sustainable world where all individuals have equal opportunities to thrive and reach their full potential, regardless of their gender. Hence, progress in achieving gender equality is critical for achieving other SDGs related to poverty, education, health, and environmental sustainability.
These roundtable discussions represent a significant step towards enhancing gender equality in Turkmenistan. By addressing CEDAW recommendations, monitoring the NAP on Gender Equality, and incorporating regional insights, the initiative aims to create a robust framework for promoting gender-responsive policies and practices across the country.
UNFPA plays a crucial role in supporting the achievement of SDGs in Turkmenistan. Hence, UNFPA has been a strategic partner of the Government of Turkmenistan in advancing gender equality at all levels focusing on prevention and response to gender based violence, ensuring access to universal reproductive health services, including maternal health and family planning, and fostering gender equality through access and use of population data, and youth programmes.
