From 25 to 29 March 2024 in Ashgabat, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Turkmenistan, together with the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, conducted a training on assisting survivors of sexual violence.
The purpose of the training was to improve the skills of specialists in the field of providing assistance to survivors of sexual violence both in peacetime and in emergency situations, as well as to adapt the WHO clinical protocol for the management of cases of violence to the context of Turkmenistan.
The training took place at the Training and Methodological Center under the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan. UNFPA international experts - Ms. Suhaila Aboud (online) and Ms. Yana Roganova (on a visit to Turkmenistan) - shared their knowledge and experience with obstetricians-gynecologists, reproductive health professionals from various medical institutions in the country, as well as with the specialists on provision of medical services and emergency response of the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan.
The training program included lectures and practical exercises, which allowed students not only to gain theoretical knowledge, but also to practice the skills of providing assistance in simulated situations.
The training covered the issues of sexual violence, its medical and psychological consequences, and methods of providing medical and psychosocial assistance to the victims. The WHO clinical protocol was also adapted taking into account national legislation, health system resources and cultural norms and traditions of Turkmenistan.
An important outcome of the training was the development of an action plan to assist victims of sexual violence, which will be adopted in the practical work of relevant specialists, in the work of medical facilities, and other relevant institutions. The action plan is aimed at improving the system of assistance to victims of sexual violence, ensuring access to medical, psychosocial and legal assistance and its prevention.
For more information, please contact
UNFPA Turkmenistan Reproductive Health Programme Specialist
Dr. Kemal Goshliyev at goshliyev@unfpa.org
