UNRC Office, Ashgabat, 23 March - Discussions at the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) consultations proceeded with the Goal 8 “Promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.” The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection and the Ministry of Economy and Development have led the consultation, with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), International Organization of Migration (IOM), and the UN Women. The goal includes the following background, 

“Over the past 25 years the number of workers living in extreme poverty has declined dramatically, despite the long-lasting impact of the economic crisis of 2008/2009. In developing countries, the middle class now makes up more than 34 percent of total employment – a number that has almost tripled between 1991 and 2015.

However, as the global economy continues to recover we are seeing slower growth, widening inequalities and employment that is not expanding fast enough to keep up with the growing labour force. According to the International Labour Organization, more than 204 million people are unemployed in 2015.”[1]

Representatives of about 11 national ministries and agencies discussed the proposed twelve targets to the Goal 8 and their relevance to Turkmenistan. Participants of todays’ consultation agreed to adopt five of the global targets as is, three were modified o the local context, and two will be adopted in case of developing relevant national methodologies.  Five of 17 indicators accepted without modification.  Six were changed to the local context, two requires further clarification.

The discussion was focused on employment assistance for different target groups, such as youth, migrants, and unemployed people. The participants highlighted the importance of improvement of employment conditions and social benefits for the mentioned groups.

They also stressed on ongoing and new programs in Turkmenistan that already carry out relevant projects. For example, a recent approved National Programme for youth employment that encompasses assistance in occupation, entrepreneurship and support to young families. To implement significant for Turkmenistan indicators, the participants agreed on developing measure system, which will be a part of the final step for SDGs.//UNRC Office.