A month-long round of national consultations on modernizing the social protection system has concluded in Ashgabat. The project, initiated by UNICEF together with the Ministry of Labor, the Ministry of Finance, and the State Statistics Committee of Turkmenistan, with the participation of the World Bank and the International Labour Organization, is moving from the analysis phase to concrete action.

Over the course of the month, experts, parliamentarians, and representatives of public organizations assessed the effectiveness of current social support programs using the international CODI diagnostic tool. The main goal is to make state assistance more inclusive, fair, and focused on people’s real needs at every stage of life.

Following the meetings, a package of key recommendations was developed. It includes expanding the child benefits system, reforming disability payments, modernizing pension system management, and creating employment programs for vulnerable youth. The central step will be the development of a comprehensive National Social Protection Strategy for Turkmenistan.

“A national strategy can become a unified platform that brings together reforms in social security, public services, and employment. It is important that it is backed by financing and has a clear action plan,” said Lakshmi Bhavani, Acting Representative of UNICEF in Turkmenistan.

The recommendations developed are expected to accelerate reforms outlined in the country’s presidential socio-economic development program. UNICEF confirmed its readiness to support the Government of Turkmenistan in transforming analytical data into practical solutions aimed at improving the well-being of children and families across the country.

ORIENT