On the fields of the COP29 and acquaintance with the Baku city
Ecologists from the PAE “Tebigy Kuwwat” attended COP29 in Baku
Representatives of the Public Association enterprise “Tebigy Kuwwat”, the Aarhus Centre in Turkmenistan, and the Project office of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) in Turkmenistan participated in the 29th Conference of the Parties on Climate Change (COP29), which took place officially in Baku from November 11 to 22, 2024.
During their visit, Berkeli Atayev, Serdar Mammetniyazov, and Mergen Kepbanov attended the “Turkish Climate Initiative Forum on Human Capital Issues”, held in the “Green Zone” at the stand of the Azerbaijan National Non-Governmental Organizations Forum.
Alongside the representatives from Turkmenistan, the forum, organized by the Agency of State Support to NGOs of Azerbaijan Republic, brought together civil society participants from Azerbaijan, Turkey (including Northern Cyprus), Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Hungary. The stand became a gathering point for representatives of numerous NGOs, including the Organization of Turkic States and organizations working on women’s issues, youth, volunteering, ecology, journalism, and more. Discussions centered on the role of human capital in the fight against global warming.
The forum concluded with a ceremony, where the organizers expressed their thanks and presented commemorative gifts featuring the COP29 summit’s branding to all panelists.
The next event with the participation of Turkmen ecologists was a panel session on “The Caspian Sea and Sustainable Development: Environmental Protection”, which took place on November 19 in the “Green Zone” at the “Water” Conference Hall.
The session opened with welcome speeches from honored person:
- Aygun Aliyeva, Member of the COP29 Organizing Committee, Executive Director of the Agency for State Support of NGOs of the Republic of Azerbaijan;
- Azer Allahveranov, Deputy of the National Assembly;
- Shelale Hasanova, Chairperson of the “Public Union for Assistance to the Development of Public Relations”;
- Vladimir Grebnev, Regional Climate Change Specialist, Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia (CAREC);
- Gulbara Sultanova, Chairperson of the Committee on Civil Society Issues, Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
NGO representatives from Azerbaijan, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan spoke at the session. In his speech, Berkeli Atayev highlighted several key initiatives from the President of Turkmenistan, including:
- The creation, in partnership with the UN, of a Regional Climate Change Technology Center for Central Asia and the Caspian Basin. This initiative would strengthen regional cooperation on environmental security and enhance coordination between countries. The center would monitor and analyze ecological trends in the region and provide governments with informed recommendations.
- The Caspian Environmental Initiative – a platform for discussing environmental challenges and resource management in the Caspian region.
- The preparation and signing of an agreement on scientific collaboration between Caspian countries.
- Support for educational exchange programs to share knowledge in science, technology, and innovation.
- Joint research, publications, and academic exchanges between regional universities.
“The future of regional cooperation in the Caspian region will depend on several factors, including the political commitment from states involved, active participation from civil society, and the development of joint initiatives and projects. In the coming years, we expect larger-scale technology exchange programs and enhanced scientific and educational cooperation, which will support economic growth and ensure a sustainable future for all Caspian states,” concluded B. Atayev.
Later that day, as part of the closing of their COP29 participation, “The Caspian House: Platform for Environmental Civil Society Organizations of the Caspian Countries” project was presented at the Azerbaijan National Non-Governmental Organizations Forum stand. This presentation was part of the “Promoting Public Relations Development” project, which received a grant in the “COP29: International Initiatives” competition, jointly announced by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan and the Agency for State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
The initiative aims to establish an environmental community of non-governmental organization from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan, focused on implementing projects such as the Caspian House platform. This initiative will provide long-term information support for the virtual portal caspianhouse.info and “The Virtual Museum of Green Economy for Caspian States”. It also includes joint regional educational events, thematic programs, and international conferences. Four organizations reached an agreement on collaboration: ” Public Union for Assistance to the Development of Public Relations”, NGO “Eurasian People’s Assembly”, the Kazakhstan EcoForum/Central Asia Climate Network of Civil Society, and PAE “Tebigy Kuwwat”.
As with previous COP climate summits, COP29 saw protests by eco-activists. Throughout the event, including on November 23, protesters rallied in both the “Blue Zone” and outdoors, calling for an end to fossil fuel funding and a shift towards renewable energy sources. Other protests included opposition to colonial rule, nuclear tests on colonial territories, and nuclear energy. Vegans also expressed their demands with banners and large inflatable balloons placed near the entrance to the “Blue Zone.”
The event wasn’t just about discussions, a cultural program was also organized for participants. Visitors were taken on tours of the evening city of Baku and the “Icheri Sheher” (Old City), Baku’s most historic district, where scenes from the famous Soviet film “The Diamond Arm” were filmed, where the characters famously fell, shouting “Damn it!”
In addition to its rich nature and cultural landmarks, Azerbaijan is famous for its cuisine. Guests were invited to restaurants like “Shah” Gallery-restaurant and the “Shirvanshahs” Museum Restaurant, where they enjoyed traditional dishes made from meat, fish, local fruits, vegetables, and sweets. I particularly enjoyed Azerbaijani dumplings called “Dushbara,” “feijoa” and “pomegranate” fruits, and the famous “baklava”.
Berkeli Atayev.
Improving Infrastructure as the Key to Sustainable Tourism
It is needless to remind anyone that traveling is one of humanity’s most enjoyable pastimes. It makes life more exciting, broadens horizons, and allows tourists to become acquainted with cultural and natural landmarks, sights, and the ways of life of various peoples, including their unique national histories, cultures, folklore, and cuisines.
Turkmenistan has huge potential for development of tourism. The ancient Great Silk Road, dotted with many caravanserais that have survived to this day, passed through the territory of modern Turkmenistan. The country’s socio-political stability, natural landscapes, climate, history, and people contribute to the development of various forms of tourism: historical and cultural, recreational, adventure, congress, sports, exotic, religious, ecological, and more.
I’d like to highlight the tourist attractions of Turkmenistan’s easternmost region, particularly the Koytendag State Nature Reserve, which combines historical, cultural, ecological, and exotic tourism all at once.
It’s worth noting that the Koytendag mountain range, like the mountain systems originating from the Asian ranges of the Pamirs and Tien Shan on the border areas of neighboring countries, is of significant interest to international conservation organizations, such as the World Wildlife Fund, the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF), and other international nature conservation funds.
In keeping with the course of developing eco-tourism while preserving the pristine natural and cultural environment, the Public Association Enterprise (PAE) “Tebigy Kuwwat” has repeatedly organized activities to raise awareness and understanding of the infrastructure necessary for building sustainable eco-tourism in the Koytendag mountain range. Last year, the organization held a seminar on this topic at the administrative territory of the Koytendag Reserve. To ensure inclusivity, the PAE later partnered with the public association “Yenme” to conduct a seminar on the same topic, incorporating full inclusivity. As a gesture of goodwill, and in honor of Turkmenistan’s Neutrality Day, the organization also held a tree-planting event in collaboration with the reserve staff.
Inspired by the information presented at these seminars, the reserve’s leadership began improving the most visited tourist sites in the reserve, such as the “Kyrk Gyz” grotto and the Dinosaur Plateau.
Understanding the key areas that require attention, a decision was made to construct convenient restrooms and awning for shade on sunny days. At the “Kyrk Gyz” tourist site, due to a lack of water for technical needs, irrigation of plants, and fire safety, the reserve’s administration decided to build a water reservoir with a capacity of up to 20 cubic meters.
Additionally, a 40-meter-long fence was built along the width of the entire path, standing 1.4 meters high, with a turnstile and a metal panel displaying historical information about the tourist site. This decision was driven by soil contamination and increased air pollution in the poorly ventilated part of the “Kyrk Gyz” grotto, caused by visitors parking their vehicles too close. Furthermore, narrow paths were made inconvenient for hikers due to horse tours, which resulted in horse manure along the trails, detracting from the pristine natural aesthetic.
A similar issue affects the Dinosaur Plateau tourist site, where disorganized grazing of livestock is common, and both horse and motorcycle routes operate, which further affect air quality. Therefore, infrastructure improvements similar to those at the “Kyrk Gyz” tourist site are planned.
This kind of activity aimed at developing eco-tourism will be even more effective if it is implemented comprehensively, with the involvement of all stakeholders, and if regular efforts are made to instill a love for the local area and a deep respect for nature!
Berkeli Atayev.
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Third Inclusive Festival Promotes Diversity and Inclusion in Ashgabat in Celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities
With the support from the Government of Turkmenistan, the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO) and the Office of UN High Commissioner on Human Rights Regional Office for Central Asia (OHCHR ROCA) in collaboration with UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, IOM, UN Volunteers and local NGOs and youth activists, successfully hosted the third annual Inclusive Festival «We are different- We are equal», on 9 November at the park of culture and rest «Ashgabat» (1st Park). The event brought together diverse segments of the community to celebrate inclusion, promote human rights, and highlight the importance of solidarity in Turkmenistan.
This year’s event was held in anticipation of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, highlighting the importance of promoting inclusion and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities in Turkmen society.
The festival brought together more than 300 representatives from government agencies, civil society organizations, diplomatic community, youth groups, and the general public, creating a vibrant and welcoming space for dialogue, creativity, and inclusiveness. The event was dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of the rights of persons with disabilities and encouraging active community engagement to ensure no one is left behind.
The civil society organizations included National Red Crescent Society, Blind and Deaf Society of Turkmenistan, Central Physical and Sports Club of the Disabled People of Turkmenistan, NGO «Yenme», Center for Support of People with Disabilities, NGO «Climbing club «Agama», National Center of Special Olympics, National Federation of Gymnastics, NGO «Yash tebigatchy» («Young Naturalist») and UN Young SDG Ambassadors. Private sector also supported the festival.
The festival featured various activities, including inclusive sports, including chess for people with visual disabilities, rock climbing, arts and crafts, live performances, and games designed to inspire dialogue on equality, gender and social inclusion. The music and dance performances, and exhibitions of art and crafts made by people with disabilities made the festival brighter and more cheerful. The event featured youth-led initiatives aimed at raising awareness about social issues, including disability rights, gender equality, and environmental protection.
Speaking at the event, Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator, emphasized:
«The Inclusive Festival is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds, has a place in society. This festival is not just a celebration but a call to action to create a more inclusive and just world for all.»
The festival also provided a platform for civil society organizations to share their experiences, best practices, and innovative solutions for promoting inclusivity. Through creative performances and interactive dialogues, young activists showcased their dedication to building a more inclusive future in Turkmenistan.
«The annual inclusive Festival proved that this is a great, welcome celebration of inclusivity, equality and dignity of everyone. It was very interesting, and we had a great time together. There are many bright, happy memories of this event,» shared Elchin Gulamov, a representative of the Society of blind and deaf people of Turkmenistan and a talented singer.
The event concluded with a vibrant flashmob by young volunteers performing a song in sign language. Participants left the festival energized and motivated to continue working together toward a society where no one is left behind.
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In Ashgabat, environmental NGOs were introduced to the principles of Strategic Environmental Assessment
From November 5 to 7, 2024, Mr. Christian Melis , Environmental Governance Officer from the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, and Professor Dr. Jerzy Jendroska, an international legal expert, paid an official visit to Ashgabat.
On the first day, November 5, the distinguished guests presented the project “Strengthening national and regional capacities and cooperation on Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) in Central Asia” to representatives of the Ministry of Environment Protection, the Ministry of Finance and Economy, the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry, and the Ministry of Construction and Architecture.
On November 6, according to their schedule, the guests met with officials from the previously mentioned ministries, as well as the Ministry of Agriculture.
On the final day of their visit, November 7, at the OSCE Center in Ashgabat, Mr. Christian Melis and Professor Dr. Jerzy Jendroska delivered a presentation to environmental NGOs on the second phase of their ongoing regional project.
The meeting gathered representatives from the Aarhus Centre of Turkmenistan, the Public Association Enterprise “Tebigy Kuwwat”, the Nature Preserving Society of Turkmenistan,the Project office of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) in Turkmenistan, the enterprise “Turkmenobadesgakhyzmat” of the Center for Disability Support“, and Economical Society “Ynamly Egindesh”.
At the beginning of the session, Mr. Melis provided an overview of the project, the first phase of which took place from September 2019 to December 2021, highlighting the following key achievements:
– Needs assessment was conducted, and action plan was developed to establish national SEA systems.
– Rised awareness and strenthened capacities about Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA);
– Enhanced co-operation within and across countries;
– Needs assessment and action plan for establishing national SEA systems was developed.
He then continued to familiarize the audience with the goals of the second phase of the project, which began in December 2023 and will conclude in December 2026. In particular, he noted that it will further support the establishment of effective national SEA systems and facilitate transboundary EIS (Environmental Impact Statement ) cosultations in Central Asia.
At the end of his presentation, Mr. K. Melis outlined the expected outcomes of the project, namely:
– Assistance to key institutions for finalizing the legal reforms on SEA (Strategic Environmental Assessment) and EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment), including in a transboundary context;
– Enmhance capacities of key stakeholders to conduct SEA.
Professor Dr. J. Jendroska’s presentation was about the concept of environmental assessment, its historical background, priorities, international standards, and requirements for conducting SEA, as well as the procedure and roles and responsibilities of competent parties in implementing SEA and EIA, including the public.
The professor noted that the Environmental Assessment System is not a European initiative; it originated in the United States. This is because the U.S. economy, after World War II, was the most advanced in the world. The United States was the founder of such environmental assessments, having passed one of the first national acts in the world in 1969 — the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). According to this law, which became a practical tool, all significant national actions that could have a substantial environmental impact must be assessed for their likely consequences. In 1976, a regulation was developed that set standards for the government, becoming one of the most precise existing documents in this field. Up to nowdays, it has only been amended twice.
Today, all countries in the world use such tools to prevent environmental or other types of disasters rather than dealing with their consequences. According to the law regulating EIA adopted in Europe in the 1980s, the report was assigned to contractors (developers, builders), while government bodies are responsible for consulting with the public, other organizations, making decisions, and setting conditions.
The understanding of the necessity for SEA came to Europe in 1997. By 2001, the European Union (EU) adopted a directive requiring all EU countries to implement SEA in addition to EIA. This opened the way for the signing of the SEA Protocol in 2003. By then, the U.S. and Canada were already advising the EU to include a transboundary component in SEA. The EU understood this, and the Espoo Convention, signed in 1991 and adopted in 1997, provided for a transboundary procedure.
Professor Dr. J. Jendroska emphasized that in Central Asian countries, legislative documents regarding EIA are roughly at the same level, where everything is placed on the contractor, including public hearings. However, as everywhere, contractors primarily pursue their own interests without considering the potential consequences for nature, the health of the local population, etc. In this regard, the Aarhus Convention can serve as a good example, as it provides for effective public participation with the right to appeal to government authorities in decision-making.
In Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, decisions have already been made to implement the Strategic Environmental Assessment system. Turkmenistan is at the very beginning of this process, and the project “Strengthening national and regional capacities and cooperation on Strategic Environmental Assessment in Central Asia” will support any initiatives in this direction.
Y. Kepbanov, Head of the Aarhus Centre of Turkmenistan, clarified the situation regarding the relevant national legislation.
“Two years ago, with the support of experts from the EU, the procedures for conducting state environmental expertise and the procedures for conducting EIA were developed. However, time passes, and things change, which is why consultations are necessary to discuss these documents with experts and also to consider what additions could be included in the Law on State Environmental Expertise. It may not yet be time to draft a separate law on Strategic Environmental Assessment, but it makes sense to incorporate the necessary elements into the existing law, specifically two by-law acts,” – noted Y. Kepbanov.
In conclusion, the speakers thanked all participants and agreed to stay in touch and explore the possibilities of the project in providing assistance with the issues discussed at the meeting.
Berkeli Atayev.
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A seminar on exchanging best practices within the European Partnership framework was held in Ashgabat
Today, on November 1, 2024, a seminar titled “Sharing Best Practices in Enhancing Communication Approaches within the European Partnership” was held in the conference hall of the “Arkach” business center in the capital of Turkmenistan. The seminar gathered 25 participants from various civil society organizations from Ashgabat, Turkmenabat, Mary, and Dashoguz, as well as representatives of the European Union (EU) in Turkmenistan and several international environmental projects. They were introduced to the EU project “Strategic Communication and Public Diplomacy.” The primary mission of this project is to strengthen the EU’s public diplomacy efforts, increase awareness of the EU and its support to Turkmenistan, and provide concrete information on the EU’s technical assistance to Turkmenistan aimed at enhancing mutually beneficial cooperation.
At the beginning of the seminar, the event’s moderator, Mr.Serdar Agayev, the Project’s lead expert, presented the audience with the “Communication and Enhancing Visibility of the EU” guidelines on external actions.
Following this, Mr. Andrei Stoiciu, the Projects Team Leader, familiarized the participants with EU communication standards, protocols, and partnership types in the region. He briefly discussed collaboration with civil society organizations that received grant support from the EU mission in Turkmenistan in 2023. The specifics and areas for further cooperation with civil society under the project were also discussed.
In the concluding part of the seminar, participants asked questions to the project representatives regarding the necessary requirements for initiating cooperation, implementation and reporting procedures, timelines, and expected outcomes. Comprehensive answers were provided to these queries. Additionally, in case of further questions after the seminar, the organizers encouraged participants to establish contact by providing their contact details for feedback.
Berkeli Atayev.
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