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.

Ayna Atayeva.

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.

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.

The “Tebigy Kuwwat” enterprise of the Public Association “Nature Preserving Society of Turkmenistan” and the Association of legal entities in the form of association “Civil Alliance of Kazakhstan” have concluded a Memorandum of International Cooperation.The document mandates the development and strengthening of international cooperation between non-governmental organizations of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan in the socio-humanitarian sphere, including issues related to the development of civil society, education, youth policy, volunteerism, public diplomacy, and expert interaction, as well as the organization and implementation of joint events, projects, and initiatives of mutual interest.

Led by Banu Ganiyevna Nurgaziyeva, the “Civil Alliance of Kazakhstan” is one of the largest national associations, encompassing over 8,000 non-profit organizations across the country. The Civil Alliance of Kazakhstan is also one of the main organizers of the Civil Forum of Kazakhstan, which is held biennially in Astana.

The parties signing the Memorandum of Cooperation reached this decision while participating in major international events held in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan:

1. General Assembly of the Global South NGO Platform, May 14, 2026

2. The 2nd NGO Solidarity Forum of the OTS (Organization of Turkic States) Member States, May 16, 2026

3. 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13), May 17–22, 2026.

Berkeli Atayev.

On May 14, 2026, the General Assembly of the Global South NGO Platform (GSNP) commenced at the Gulistan Palace in Baku. Currently, the Platform encompasses four world regions: Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Pacific.

The General Assembly was attended by approximately 1,000 participants from over 100 countries. The Asian region was represented, among others, by civil society members from the five countries of Central Asia.

From Turkmenistan, at the invitation of the Agency for State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the following participants attended: Berkeli Atayev, Director of the “Tebigy Kuwwat” Public Association enterprise; Mubarak Kurbanova, Chairperson of the “Tyaze Zaman” Public Association; Mergen Kepbanov, Director, and Orazgul Isgenderova, Assistant of the CAREC Project Office in Turkmenistan.

The Global South NGO Platform, established in April 2025 in Baku, Azerbaijan, is a significant international initiative aimed at strengthening cooperation between civil society organizations of the Global South.

The foundation for creating this platform was the need for representation of regions that constitute the majority of the world’s population within the global decision-making mechanism. This growing NGO Platform currently unites more than 100 countries and fulfills all commitments to solidarity, mutual support, and collective action.

The primary mission of the platform is to develop cooperation between civil society organizations of the Global South, promote the exchange of knowledge and experience, and support joint initiatives in fields such as sustainable development, social justice, inclusiveness, and the fight against climate change.

The platform aims to transform civil society into a unified and effective force on a global level over the long term.

The Assembly moderator, Mr. Orkhan Amashov, welcomed all those present and invited them to view a video presentation highlighting the achievements of the GSNP since its inception.

Subsequently, Mr. Hikmat Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Head of the Department of Foreign Policy Affairs of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan, delivered a welcoming speech.

The following speakers also addressed the assembly:

• Mr. Mukhtar Babayev, Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Climate Issues;
• Mr. Ramil Iskandarli, Acting Secretary General of the GSNP;
• Mr. Igor Garafulic, UN Resident Coordinator ad interim in Azerbaijan;
• Ms. Aygun Aliyeva, Chairperson of the Board of the Agency on State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan;
• Ms. Dima Al-Khatib, Director of the UN Office for South-South Cooperation (video message);
• Mr. Luis Gallegos, President of the Advisory Board of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR);
• Mr. Mohamed Osman Mohamoud, Adviser to the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Sadar Institute;
• Mr. Nidal Salim, Founder of the Global Institute for Water, Environment and Health (GIWEH), Member of the Board of the Asian Water Council (Switzeland)

Upon the conclusion of the speeches, before the coffee break, the official anthem created for the Global South NGO Platform was played for all participants. The moderator invited everyone to stand and join hands while listening to the anthem.

The second half of the morning session was dedicated to establishing the GSNP Governance Structure. For this purpose, Mr. Fuad Karimli, the nominee for the position of GSNP Secretary-General, and the nominees for the four Deputy Secretary-General positions were invited to the presidium: Mr. Mithika Mwenda for the African region, Mr. Bobur Bekmurodov — Chairman of the “Yuksalish” National Movement (Uzbekistan) — for the Asian region, Mr. Luis Gallegos for the Latin American region, and Ms. Cecile Guidote-Alvarez for the Pacific region.

The session participants voted for the new candidates. Consequently, Mr. Fuad Karimli was elected Secretary-General of the Global South NGO Platform for a one-year term, and the aforementioned nominees were elected as his deputies for Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Pacific.

Mr. Karimli addressed the participants, expressing his gratitude for the trust placed in him and particularly acknowledging the contributions of his predecessor, Mr. Ramil Iskandarli, for his impeccable work.

“As the new Secretary-General of the Global South NGO Platform, I declare that I will work actively with my deputies representing the four regions: Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Pacific. This is not an easy task; it is a commitment to strengthening cooperation between the civil sectors of these four regions,” the Secretary-General noted.

Following this, the session moderator, Ms. Nadima Rahimli, invited all newly elected Deputy Secretaries-General to share their visions regarding the upcoming work on civil society development within their respective regions and the improvement of interregional cooperation.

The afternoon session was dedicated to two panel discussions:

1. “Global South: Settlement of Positions and Strategic Cooperation”
2. “Baku Urban Week: Inclusive Development and Sustainable Urban Models — The Global South Experience”

The panel sessions featured presentations by representatives from various international organizations, the business community, academia, the diplomatic corps, and other sectors.

At the conclusion of the General Assembly, the Declaration of Future Cooperation of the Global South NGO Platform members was developed and adopted, and subsequently read by the Secretary-General of the Global South NGO Platform, Mr. Fuad Karimli.

Berkeli Atayev.

On April 23, from 2:00 PM to 3:45 PM, the “Aral” conference hall of the Astana Hilton hosted a panel session titled “Volunteering and Environmental Action” as part of the Regional Ecological Summit (RES 2026) in Kazakhstan. The session focused on volunteering, the exchange of best practices, and the development of new initiatives.Mr. Berkeli Atayev, Director of the “Tebigy Kuwwat” enterprise (Nature Preserving Society of Turkmenistan) and representative of the Aarhus Center in Ashgabat, participated as a panelist.

The session, co-organized by the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan and United Nations Volunteers (UNV), was highly symbolic. The organizers’ decision was based on the initiative proposed by the President of Kazakhstan at the UN General Assembly to declare 2026 the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development. Furthermore, Kazakhstan previously designated 2020 as the National Year of Volunteering.The event was attended by Ms. Aida Balayeva, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, who delivered the opening remarks. Following her speech, participants viewed a video message from Mr. Toily Kurbanov, Executive Coordinator of United Nations Volunteers (UNV).

The session also featured presentations from distinguished high-level guests:

• Mr. Haoliang Xu, UN Under-Secretary-General and Associate Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP);

• Ms. Vera Kim, Deputy of the Mazhilis (the Parliament) of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Chairperson of the National Volunteer Network;

• Ms. Aygun Aliyeva, Chairperson of the Agency for State Support to NGOs of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Representatives from five Central Asian countries presented on the volunteer movements in their respective nations:

• Yevgeniy Mukhamedzhanov, Founder of the “ECO Network” project (Kazakhstan);

• Omar Dairov, Executive Director of the “Green Alliance of Kyrgyzstan”;

• Firuz Azizov, Environmental Project Manager at the “Peshsaf” Public Organization (Tajikistan);

• Berkeli Atayev, Director of “Tebigy Kuwwat” (Nature Preserving Society of Turkmenistan) and Aarhus Center representative;

• Ms. Ergash Mokhinurkhon, Head of the Youth Affairs Department of the Environmental Party of Uzbekistan;

• Kairat Sultanbekov, National Expert at the Association of Ecological Organizations of Kazakhstan and CEO of GIS-AgroMonitor;

• Asel Badenova, Leader of the “Zhana Adamdar” movement.

Given the upcoming volunteer events scheduled for August in Aktau and Kyzylorda, the Ministry of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan also invited Mr. Askhat Oralov, Deputy Akim of the Mangystau Region, and Mr. Ardak Zebeshev, Deputy Akim of the Kyzylorda Region.

In an interview, Mr. Berkeli Atayev noted: “During the discussion, special attention was paid to the role of volunteering in addressing the region’s environmental challenges. I am confident that developing this branch of volunteer activity will help foster a more responsible attitude toward the environment in Turkmenistan. I would also like to highlight the significant contribution of the UNV Program in raising awareness about eco-volunteering. As UNV Executive Coordinator Toily Kurbanov timely emphasized, “environmental volunteering is not just a cleanup event (subbotnik);” it is a comprehensive activity aimed at long-term change. The Summit and our discussion have laid the foundation for quality environmental shifts at both the state level and in the public consciousness.”

The session concluded with the signing of two key documents by volunteer organizations from the five Central Asian countries: a Memorandum of Intent for the joint implementation of the “CASPIAN SEA ACTION WEEK 2026” project and a Memorandum for the joint implementation of the “GREEN ARAL: VOLUNTEERS FOR LIFE” project.

Berkeli Atayev.

Ashgabat, March 14 and 16, 2026 — The capital of Turkmenistan served as the final destination for an extensive national training series. Four specialized workshops titled “Strengthening the Role of Civil Society in the Context of Climate Change” were held at the stylish office of the “Hormat Yoly” Economic Society (widely known as the Women Economic Society — WES).

These meetings were a logical continuation of a regional tour that began in October 2025, covering Mary, Turkmenabat, Dashoguz, and Balkanabat.

The uniqueness of the Ashgabat phase lay in its targeted engagement with diverse social groups. The workshops focused on an inclusive approach—ensuring every voice is heard. The organizers conducted dedicated sessions for:

• The women’s community;
• Youth leaders;
• Persons with disabilities;
• Representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

The events were organized by the Public Association Enterprise (PAE) “Tebigy Kuwwat” within the framework of a project funded by the European Union, in close cooperation with the “Hormat Yoly” ES and the Turkmenistan Representative Office of the GIZ Regional Program “Integrated Land Use in Central Asia taking into account Climate Change.”

Berkeli Atayev, Director of PAE “Tebigy Kuwwat” and representative of the Aarhus Centre in Turkmenistan, served as the workshop moderator. He opened the sessions by welcoming the participants, expressing gratitude for their time, and providing an overview of the challenges the country faces in the era of global warming.

The program featured in-depth expert presentations:

– Berkeli Atayev presented the report “Turkmenistan in the Era of Global Warming,” setting the context for all subsequent discussions.

– Meilis Rejepov, a specialist in Renewable Energy Sources (RES), discussed anthropogenic impacts on climate change and the prospects for transforming the renewable energy sector.

– Zakhira Begaliyeva (Advisor to the Minister of Labour and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Director of the “ITeachMe” Foundation, Kazakhstan) joined via video link to present a unique perspective on the intersection of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and climate change, emphasizing the vital importance of protecting vulnerable groups.

– Ayna Atayeva, Project Manager, inspired participants with a presentation on the active involvement of youth and the civil sector in the environmental agenda.

– Gulnar Mergenova, Advisor for the GIZ Regional Program in Turkmenistan “Integrated Land Management with Climate Change in Central Asia” shared practical expertise on effective natural resource management under changing climatic conditions.

The venue—the Women Economic Society (WES)—was chosen intentionally to symbolize the continuity and the critical link between economic, social, and environmental aspects. Participants not only gained theoretical knowledge but also discussed specific mechanisms through which Turkmenistan’s civil society can influence the region’s climate resilience.

“Strengthening the role of civil society is not merely a slogan; it is the key to the survival of our ecosystems. In the face of increasing water scarcity and desertification, only through a genuine partnership between the state, international and public organizations, local communities, businesses, and active citizens can we implement climate-resilient management practices and preserve our natural wealth for future generations,” the organizers noted in their closing remarks.

Berkeli Atayev.

On February 5–6, 2026, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, hosted the 6th EU–Central Asia Civil Society Forum. Organized by UNOPS in partnership with the Danish Institute for Human Rights (DIHR) under the “EU Support to Civil Society in Central Asia” program, the event gathered over 200 participants, including 100 civil society representatives (approximately 20 from each Central Asian nation). The Forum’s history dates back to 2019, with previous sessions held in Tashkent (March 2023) and Almaty (January 2025). The Almaty forum was attended by 16 representatives from 15 Turkmen organizations; this year, Turkmenistan was represented by 15 participants.

Among the Turkmen delegation, nine individuals represented various NGOs: Tebigy Kuwwat, Aarhus Centre of Turkmenistan, the Nature Preserving Society of Turkmenistan, the Union of Economists of Turkmenistan, Junior Achievement Turkmenistan, Yenme, Taze Zaman (Turkmenabat), Ecodurmush (Dashoguz), Mashgala (Mary), and Mirasly Senet. The delegation also included representatives from the “Ynamly Durmush” business entity, Turkmengazaragatnashyk, an intern from the EU Delegation to Turkmenistan, a freelancer, and a student.A Platform for Strategic Dialogue.

The 6th Forum serves as a key annual platform for structured dialogue between civil society organizations (CSOs), the European Union, and development partners. This year’s session built directly upon the outcomes of the 2025 Forum and the official establishment of five regional Thematic Working Groups (TWGs):

– Digital Transformation

– Climate Change and Environmental Protection

– Youth Participation

– Governance and Socially Responsible Entrepreneurship

– Women’s Empowerment

The Forum advances the EU Strategy for Central Asia and the priorities of the Global Gateway Initiative (GGI), strengthening the role of CSOs in the region’s future.

Opening Remarks and High-Level Support. The session was opened by Mr. Vasyl Tolkachov, Project Manager of the “EU Fund for Civil Society in Central Asia,” who introduced Ms. Simonetta Siligato, Director of the UNOPS Multi-Country Office in Austria, as the moderator for the opening ceremony.

H.E. Mr. Eduards Stiprais, EU Special Representative for Central Asia, delivered the keynote address. He emphasized that a strong civil society is vital for building resilient nations and noted that the EU highly values these engagements. He specifically highlighted the Global Gateway initiative as a cornerstone of regional cooperation.

Ms. Saira Temirbekovna Yzakova, Deputy Minister of Justice of the Kyrgyz Republic, welcomed participants and noted the importance of the Forum in improving connectivity across infrastructure sectors through the Global Gateway.H.E. Ms. Antje Grawe, UN Resident Coordinator, addressed the forum remotely. She thanked the organizers and praised the Kyrgyz government for hosting the event. While emphasizing the role of CSOs in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), she also expressed concern regarding recent legislative trends affecting civic space in Kyrgyzstan, calling for reforms to restore a favorable environment for civil society.

Mr. Johannes Baur, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Kazakhstan, moderated a session on the Global Gateway.

Ms. Charlotte Adriaen (DG INTPA) detailed the Global Gateway Strategy, which aims to mobilize up to $300–400 billion in investments by 2027. Key priorities for Central Asia include digital connectivity, water, energy, climate change, and transport (including the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor). She mentioned Team Europe initiatives and major energy projects like Rogun and Kambar-Ata, stressing that the EU aims to “invest correctly” by listening to local communities and CSOs.

Mr. Andrea Rossi (EEAS) underscored the region’s geopolitical significance and the EU’s commitment to trade, green and digital transitions, transport, and security.

A session titled “Setting the Context: Central Asian Youth Perspectives,” moderated by Ms.Aizat Ruslanova (IDEA CA), featured representatives from Youth Advisory Councils (YAC):

• Vladislav Veber (Kazakhstan),
• Emira Seidenaliyeva (Kyrgyzstan),
• Firuz Okhunov (Tajikistan),
• Shukurgeldi Myradov (Turkmenistan)
• and Amirbek Salimov (Uzbekistan).

They concluded that regional stability requires investment in human capital and institutional partnerships.

In the afternoon, CSOs engaged in the technical task of developing regional recommendations. Key speakers from Turkmenistan included:

Climate Change and Environment: Berkeli Atayev (Director of PAE “Tebigy Kuwwat” and representative of Aarhus Centre of Turkmenistan) reported on major climate challenges and country-level recommendations.

Women’s Empowerment: Oksana Asadulina (Social Worker, NGO “Mashgala”) briefed on the status of women’s affairs.

Youth Engagement: Ayna Bayramova (Chair of “Junior Achievement Turkmenistan”) presented the national report.

Governance and Entrepreneurship: Yuri Aronsky (Chair of the “Union of Economists of Turkmenistan”) delivered the thematic presentation.

On the second day, a consolidated set of priority regional recommendations across all five thematic areas was approved.

Human Rights: Mr. Mikkel Schmidt Hansen (DIHR) discussed applying human rights and good governance principles within the Global Gateway framework.

The practical session on potential EU funding, moderated by Mr.Bolot Isakov, sparked high interest among the Forum attendees.

EU Funding: Ms. Snejana Popova (EU Delegation to Kazakhstan) and Mr. Stefano Corrado (EU Delegation to Kyrgyzstan) provided practical guidance on grant application procedures and current funding opportunities.

The last session of the Forum was about Small Grants.  Ms. Regina Kireyeva (UNOPS) announced a call for small grants under the “EU Fund for Civil Society in Central Asia” project. For 2026, $225,000 has been allocated to fund 15 applications (up to $15,000 each), with a deadline of February 15, 2026.

Each session was followed by a dedicated Q&A period.

In his closing remarks, Ms. Simonetta Siligato, Director of the UNOPS Multi-Country Office in Austria thanked all participants for their fruitful work, noting that the results would be instrumental in preparing for the 7th Forum and for the overall development of civil society in Central Asia.

Berkeli Atayev.

Ashgabat, January 9, 2026. At the initiative of the Public Association (PA) “Junior Achievement Turkmenistan,” a meeting was held bringing together 20 representatives from non-governmental organizations and socially-oriented economic societies to discuss the role of youth in the development of civil society.

The primary objective of the meeting was to prepare a national presentation for the upcoming 6th EU Central Asia Civil Society Forum, scheduled for February 5–6, 2026, in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The Forum is a key component of the four-year project, “Support Fund for Civil Society in Central Asia,” implemented by UNOPS in partnership with the Danish Institute for Human Rights (DIHR) and with financial support from the European Union. A core task of the project is the formation of five Thematic Working Groups (TWGs), including one specifically dedicated to Youth Engagement.

Recognizing that youth-focused work is integrated into nearly every civil society organization, “Junior Achievement Turkmenistan” sought to consolidate efforts to address key challenges, thematic recommendations, and the strengths of current youth policy development.

“Our goal is to identify challenges common to the region and, more importantly, to define unique opportunities for cooperation that will allow young people to become full participants in the country’s socio-economic life,” the organizers noted.

A distinctive feature of the preparation for the Bishkek forum is the deep integration of various expert communities. According to the TWG guidelines, each group must include organizations from all five Central Asian countries. At the conclusion of the current stage, the findings of the five thematic groups will be synthesized into a single, unified national presentation for Turkmenistan. For instance, the Public Association Enterprise “Tebigy Kuwwat,” a member of the “Climate Change and the Environment” TWG, has already submitted its national presentation for the upcoming Forum.

The efforts to strengthen youth engagement discussed at this meeting represent just one of the five components of a comprehensive national report.

During the discussion, participants identified several key barriers facing modern youth:

• The Education-Labor Market Gap: The urgent need to adapt academic knowledge to the practical demands of the digital economy.
• Access to Resources in Regions: The necessity of expanding infrastructure to support youth self-actualization in rural areas.

Public organizations possess unique expert capital, which was utilized to form a package of concrete steps to elevate the role of youth. These include the establishment of permanent dialogue platforms between youth leaders and the business community, as well as the expansion of vocational guidance programs.

Special emphasis was placed on regional cooperation within Central Asia. Experts proposed several strategic initiatives:

• Joint Hubs for launching startups with a social impact.
• A Regional Volunteer Network.
• Knowledge Exchange in the fields of ecology, culture, and inclusion.
• A Unified Web Platform to serve as a hub for exchanging best practices among NGOs across Central Asian countries.

The meeting demonstrated that the youth of Turkmenistan are prepared not only to adopt international best practices but also to propose their own innovative solutions for the development of the entire region.

Ayna Atayeva.