Involvement of National Specialists in Initiatives to Harmonize Approaches in Water Resource and Ecosystem Management in the CA Region

Posted on June 25, 2026June 25, 2026 by zemzen

National and International experts and researchers share serious concerns regarding the availability of minimum environmental flow in the Central Asian region, particularly within the Amu Darya Basin. The lower reaches of this and other rivers in our country suffer from reduced flow and poor water quality, which negatively impacts ecosystems and threatens biodiversity. In addition to the ongoing Aral Sea crisis, the situation in the Turkmen Aral Sea region is becoming increasingly acute.

Environmental water flows are essential, as they determine the volume, regime, and quality of water flows required to sustain freshwater ecosystems and the human livelihoods that depend on them. Key issues for the Central Asian region regarding the increase of environmental flow volumes were addressed at the Regional Seminar “Implementing Environmental Flow in the Central Asian Region: From Expert Analysis to Practical Actions,” held in Tashkent in June 2026 under the Blue Peace Central Asia Project. The initiative is led by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with financial support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. K. Ovezmuradov, a member of the SUE “Tebigy Kuvvat” and the Aarhus Center in Turkmenistan, participated in the event; he currently also serves as the National Consultant on Institutional Coordination/Regional Water Management issues for the UNDP “Conservation of Land Resources in the Aral Sea Basin” project. Turkmen specialists from relevant organizations also took part in this specialized event.

An important highlight of the Regional Seminar was the acknowledgment that Central Asian countries are currently transitioning from an engineering- and resource-driven approach to integrated water management models that incorporate environmental aspects. It was also emphasized that environmental flows must be considered part of a broader water resource management system. At the seminar, the Blue Peace Central Asia Project presented the results of its study on the current status of environmental flows in Central Asian countries, along with a comparative analysis of the institutional, legal, and scientific-technical readiness of the region’s nations to implement these flows. This analysis also assessed readiness to adopt modern global approaches, practices, and tools in the field of environmental flows.Regarding the readiness analysis, presentations were delivered by representatives from the Central Asian countries, including a report by K. Ovezmuradov. This presentation outlined and proposed solutions for environmental challenges at both the national and regional levels, including joint action plans within water diplomacy aimed at strengthening regional cooperation to secure environmental flows. As a final outcome of this segment of the seminar, participants identified existing barriers to accelerating the implementation of environmental flows and agreed on next steps to integrate environmental flows into the national water management systems of Central Asian countries.

Aspects regarding tool validation were reviewed, including the presentation and discussion of applied tools such as the “E-Flow Glossary” web application prototype, alongside IWMI approaches and methodologies for implementing environmental flows in Central Asian countries, specifically the IWMI environmental flow calculator. In terms of methodology, this calculator is proposed as the foundational baseline and unified tool for implementing environmental flows across the Central Asian region.

Furthermore, representatives from Turkmenistan were actively involved in strategic planning sessions, which covered the presentation and endorsement of the Regional Roadmap and the Concept of the Community of Practice (CoP) on Environmental Flow, as well as the formation of the regional CoP platform. Based on the outcomes of this segment of the seminar, strategic recommendations were outlined for implementing the Regional Roadmap for environmental flow integration, including specific points concerning Turkmenistan.

The conceptual and organizational frameworks for the operations of the Community of Practice on Environmental Flow were also presented, detailing the positions and roles of Central Asian countries based on their achievements and contributions. For Turkmenistan, the designated role is that of a Strategic Observer, focusing on step-by-step engagement through international projects and technical adaptation, with the status defined as a Preparatory Phase to allow participation without rigid obligations for a smooth and comfortable integration.

This regional cooperation proved to be highly valuable, enabling information exchange, the sharing of national water management experiences, and the mutual presentation of visions and ideas. The regional seminar was thoroughly practice-oriented and united the countries of Central Asia in a format of truly effective collaboration, facilitating the coordination of efforts to recognize ecosystems as legitimate water users and to integrate environmental flows into water resource management systems. The seminar served as a platform to discuss the transition from theoretical analysis to practical implementation, including the future harmonization of approaches in water resource and ecosystem management at the regional level. The work accomplished during the seminar can be seen as part of the expert support and facilitation of dialogue among national agencies, international water management structures (including IFAS), and the UNDP Aral project. This dialogue aims to develop a unified position on sustainable water management measures, optimize institutional structures, and prepare specialized analytical materials on the role of environmental releases in preserving biodiversity.

Over the past decade, contradictions between actual environmental flows and the fulfillment of environmental treaty obligations have significantly worsened the ecological situation. The crisis in the Aral Sea region, including Turkmenistan, could deteriorate even further if irreversible water withdrawals from the Amu Darya continue. Joint efforts by experts and other stakeholders are urgently needed to overcome narrow sectoral agendas, address the dominance of the agricultural sector in water consumption, protect vulnerable ecosystems, improve access to relevant data, and enhance overall coordination to meet agreed-upon flow volume obligations. Along with national efforts, this fully applies to the transboundary and interstate levels.

Кurbanmurat Ovezmuradov.

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Environmental Dialogue: Civil Society of Turkmenistan and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation

Posted on June 21, 2026June 21, 2026 by zemzen

The cooperation between the civil sector in Turkmenistan and international institutions is reaching a qualitatively new level. From June 15 to 20, 2026, a delegation from the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS), led by Mr. André Algermissen, the Regional Representative of the Foundation for Central Asia, arrived in Turkmenistan for an official visit.

As with previous visits, the delegation’s agenda included meetings with representatives of both government agencies and civil society.

On June 16, a meeting was held with representatives of the Mejlis (Parliament) of Turkmenistan, specifically the Committee on Environmental Protection, Natural Resources, and the Agro-Industrial Complex, and the Committee on International and Inter-Parliamentary Relations.

As noted during the meeting at the Mejlis, the Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation signed in Ashgabat in April 2025 between the Public Association «Nature Preserving Society of Turkmenistan» (NPST) and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Central Asia solidified the parties’ commitment to implementing systemic initiatives in key areas. These include joint actions on projects aimed at improving the environmental situation in the Central Asian region, enhancing environmental education in educational institutions across Central Asia, fostering and developing environmental awareness among citizens, and promoting public participation in environmentally significant decision-making.

On the same day, a series of expert seminars under the general title «Strengthening the Role of Youth in Responding to Climate Change Risks in Turkmenistan» commenced at the «Ish Nokady» co-working center in the «Arkach» shopping and entertainment center in Ashgabat. On June 18, the seminar series continued in the conference hall of the «Charlak» Hotel in the city of Turkmenbashi. The events were organized by the Nature Preserving Society of Turkmenistan in cooperation with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation and with the support of the «Tebigy Kuwwat» Public Association Enterprise.The Ashgabat seminar brought together representatives of public organizations, active civil society youth, and the media. The Turkmenbashi seminar was attended by representatives of public organizations, the Hazar State Nature Reserve, the administration of the Balkan velayat (province), educational institutions, and the media.

At the opening of the sessions, the moderator of the dialogue platforms, Berkeliy Atayev, Director of the «Tebigy Kuwwat» Public Association Enterprise, floor to Serdar Allekov, Chairman of the Central Council of the NPST, and Mr. André Algermissen for their welcoming remarks.

Serdar Allekov noted:

– Our structure spans all regions of the country, but we do not stop there. We are breaking stereotypes, introducing innovations, and teaching young people to translate complex environmental protocols into tangible actions. Our main distinguishing feature is an extensive network covering 100% of the territory of Turkmenistan. We successfully combine a rich history with modern innovative formats, turning the requirements of environmental protocols into applied solutions.

He emphasized that he highly values the cooperation with the Foundation, as evidenced by the Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation signed in Ashgabat in 2025. He also stressed their readiness to collaborate, share experiences, and actively engage and train the younger generation.

Mr. André Algermissen presented a comprehensive vision of the climate agenda. In his speech, he outlined the primary climate targets:

• Climate neutrality by 2045.

• Reduction of emissions by 65% by 2035.

• Expansion and utilization of renewable energy sources.

• Protection and restoration of ecosystems and biodiversity.

He emphasized that young people play a crucial role in climate and environmental protection worldwide, including in Germany. Their involvement influences policy, public awareness, innovation, and daily behavior. He highlighted youth activism in Germany, specifically referencing the «Fridays for Future» movement. In this regard, he underscored the importance of raising public awareness and educating the new, well-informed generation globally. This is the core mission of the Foundation, achieved through knowledge exchange, training sessions, seminars, educational grants, conferences, and roundtables. These platforms enable young people to hear and understand alternative perspectives and policy criteria, exchange experiences, and voice their opinions in an argumentative and professional manner.

The moderator, Berkeli Atayev, Director of «Tebigy Kuwwat», delivered a presentation titled «Urbanization in the context of Climate Change.» He detailed how modern cities can adapt to rising temperatures and resource scarcity while maintaining the quality of life for citizens, drawing the audience’s attention to recent innovations in urban environments. He provided examples of effective approaches along with specific figures for current trends and future projections. How do we build cities free from extreme heat? How do we transform concrete «jungles» into comfortable spaces? He demonstrated that this is a matter not only of architecture but of survival.

Special emphasis during the seminars was placed on the potential of youth. Representatives of civil society presented their initiatives, highlighting that their implementation requires not only resources but also professional competencies, such as project management skills, leadership, and proficiency in digital technologies to drive social change.

Guncha Yusupova, Chairwoman of the Public Organization «Ecological Movement of Turkmenistan», gave a presentation titled «The Role of the Public in the Development of the Eco-Movement of Turkmenistan.» She spoke about her organization’s focus on establishing accessible digital databases of environmental information and conducting active public outreach.

Merdan Arazmedov, Head of the General Department of the NPST, presented a report titled «Activism and the Youth Movement: Youth Participation in Climate Initiatives.» He analyzed successful local and international case studies where volunteers became the linchpin of environmental projects. He elaborated on youth volunteerism, providing examples of how personal initiative transforms into successful climate projects.

Ovlyaguly Kurbanov, Director of the Balkan velayat Branch of the NPST, speaking in Turkmenbashi, focused on regional specificities in his presentation, «Environmental Protection Activities of the Balkan velayat in the context of Climate Change.» He emphasized the conservation of fragile Caspian ecosystems and outlined the specific nature of environmental work in the Caspian region, focusing on the protection of unique ecosystems amid a changing climate.

The seminars proved to be more than a mere series of meetings; they fostered an intensive exchange of experience between participants and speakers. Moving forward, the organizers took note of several key proposals from the participants: establishing an application process for young people from Turkmenistan to access the scholarship programs of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, organizing long-term certified seminars featuring international experts, and maintaining feedback channels for future cooperation.

Ayna Atayeva.

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PFD-2026 Asia-Pacific Regional Climate Meeting Concludes in Jakarta

Posted on June 6, 2026June 6, 2026 by zemzen

On May 4, 2026, the Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting of the Policy Forum on Development (PFD 2026) in Jakarta, Indonesia, concluded its two-day event, bringing together experts from 40 countries.

On the first day of the Forum, participants took part in three sessions. On the second and final day, they continued their work by discussing key issues in the following three sessions.Within Session 4, “Global Gateway Strategy and Just Transition: Localizing Global Gateway in the Asia-Pacific Region (APAC),” moderated by Ms. Michela Tomasella — Head of Sector for Dialogue with Civil Society and Foundations at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (G2) — an overview of the Global Gateway initiative’s operations in the Asia-Pacific region was presented. Additionally, the session examined local resource management in the context of the strategy’s implementation, using specific case studies.

Participants split into two working groups to analyze practical cases and formulate specific recommendations for Global Gateway projects in the region, aiming to strengthen partnerships and deliver benefits to local communities:

Group A: Renewable Energy and Critical Raw Materials (CRM).

Group B: Urban and Rural Climate Resilience.

Session 5: “Climate Mobility: From Displacement to Decent Lives.”

This session addressed the challenges associated with climate-induced migration in the region. Climate mobility was framed as a legitimate adaptation strategy capable of providing people with decent sources of income and a secure future. The event opened with a panel discussion featuring invited experts, followed by breakout sessions in three sub-regional groups: the Pacific, Southeast Asia, and other sub-regions.

At the end of the session, conclusions were summarized and insights were shared during a general plenary meeting.

Session 6: Concluding SessionIn the final session, participants were given the opportunity to highlight priority recommendations based on the outcomes of the meeting, evaluate the event, and deliver closing remarks. Below is a brief summary of the preliminary two-day report:

Climate Finance

Fulfill climate commitments (including ODA) and provide local structures with access to flexible instruments: funds, small grants, green bonds, cooperative and blended finance.

Climate Investment

Direct funds toward peace and prosperity, as climate change exacerbates local crises. Investments must guarantee decent work, the self-determination of indigenous peoples, and the rights of vulnerable groups (women, youth, and people with disabilities).

Equal Partnership

Make equality the foundation of the Global Gateway strategy through inclusive governance, accountability, community information, and dialogue with local authorities.

The Role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Local Authorities

Involve CSOs and local authorities as co-creators (rather than mere implementers) during the planning phase. Transparency within Global Gateway processes is essential to protect the rights of people on the ground.

Capacity Building

Train local communities, CSOs, and authorities, ensuring their leadership and active participation in climate projects.

Berkeli Atayev.

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The Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting of the Policy Forum on Development (PFD 2026) on Climate Resilience has kicked off in Jakarta

Posted on June 3, 2026June 5, 2026 by zemzen

On June 2, 2026, driven by a spirit of broad international cooperation, the Regional Meeting of the Policy Forum on Development (PFD) for Asia and the Pacific opened in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta. This prestigious gathering brought together over 100 European Union officials, civil society leaders, and representatives of local organizations. They all united around a single, urgent mission: to breathe local life into global climate ambitions.

Central Asia was represented by civil society stakeholders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Berkeli Atayev, Director of the Enterprise of the “Tebigy Kuvvat” Public Organization and representative of the Aarhus Center in Turkmenistan, is participating in this global dialogue.

The introductory session was moderated by Ms. Michela Tomasella, Head of Sector for Dialogue with Civil Society and Foundations at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (G2). She welcomed all participants and officials, including the honorable ambassadors of Greece and Romania to Indonesia, and outlined the goals and objectives of the 2-day forum (PFD 2026).

Welcome remarks were then delivered by: Mr. Leonardo A. A. Teguh Sambodo, Expert Staff for Food, Natural Resources, and Environment at the Ministry of National Development Planning of Indonesia (Bappenas); Mr. Sujiro Seam, EU Ambassador to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN); and Dr. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi, Secretary General of the United Cities and Local Governments Asia Pacific (UCLG ASPAC).

Session 1, titled “Localizing the Climate Agenda for Shared Prosperity,” featured a panel discussion dedicated to different paradigms of climate action as a development priority rooted in equity.

Ms. Shivangi Hasmukhlal Chavda, India Programme Manager at the Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction (GNDR), moderated the panel session. The discussion aimed at understanding various forms of climate finance (beyond the public sector and Official Development Assistance — ODA), as well as the roles of different actors, including governments, local authorities, banks, the EU, civil society organizations, and foundations.

The panel speakers included: Ms. Monalisa Kashyap, Programme and Advocacy Coordinator for the Asia and Pacific Youth Committee of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA-AP); Mr. Jodel Dacara, WINGS Regional Coordinator for Asia Pacific; Ms. Emeline Siale Ilolahia, Executive Director of the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (PIANGO); and Ms. Pefi Kingi, Coordinator of Pacific Migration Partners, a partner organization of PIANGO.

The second session, “Rethinking Climate Governance and Financing,” explored creative and innovative financing models to understand how climate finance, loss and damage funds, and adaptation funding can be co-designed, managed, and monitored by local communities. The panel, moderated by Ms. Usha Menon (GNDR), focused on finding alternative, community-driven economic pathways. Speakers for this session included: Ms. Lazina Rahman (Asian Development Bank), Ms. Maimunah Mohd Sharif (former Executive Director of UN-Habitat), Mr. Suhrit Bajwa (EdelGive), Ms. Elenita San Roque (Association of Asian Confederation of Credit Unions), and Mr. Ravi Ranjan Kumar Guru (All India Institute of Local Self-Government).

In the afternoon, the forum split into specialized breakout groups under Session 3, “Just Climate Finance, Business, and Partnerships.” Here, abstract financial concepts were tightly linked with strict ethical principles. A particular emphasis was placed on compliance with the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) to guarantee that “green” investments are never made at the expense of social safeguards and human rights.

At the conclusion of the day’s work, the forum participants reconvened for a general plenary session. The breakout group facilitators presented their findings to finance experts. The subsequent analysis served as a prime example of open, honest, and constructive dialogue.

Ultimately, the first day of the Jakarta meeting left a strong, positive impression on the participants. Everyone arrived at a unanimous conclusion: a massive and genuine green transformation in the Asia-Pacific region will remain a mere dream unless it is anchored by three interconnected pillars: deeply localized governance, radically inclusive partnerships, and a fair, uncompromising financial architecture.

Berkeli Atayev.