UNDP Brings Turkmenistan’s Youth Together for Climate Solutions in Ashgabat

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Turkmenistan has brought the country’s young people together for a youth conference on climate solutions and environmental innovation, held in Ashgabat on 24 October 2026 to mark United Nations Day.

Held at the International Scientific and Technological Park of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan, the conference gathered young activists, environmentalists, university students and young professionals to exchange ideas and explore innovative approaches to climate challenges, according to UNDP Turkmenistan.

What the conference covered

Through thematic sessions, participants learned about environmental diplomacy and discussed how young people can contribute to global climate goals at the local level. The programme also explored how digital technologies, science and engineering innovations can support sustainable development.

The conference gave participants a platform to exchange ideas and build leadership skills, with sessions designed to turn discussion into practical approaches young people can carry into their communities.

Two frameworks behind the event

The conference was organised within two initiatives. The first is the UNDP and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) project supporting the preparation of Turkmenistan’s Fifth National Communication on Climate Change under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The second is the regional UNDP and UNEP project addressing marine litter and marine plastics in the Caspian Sea through a systemic approach, implemented with financial support from the Russian Federation.

Part of a wider United Nations Day programme

According to UNDP Turkmenistan, the conference formed part of a wider programme of youth and environmental activities held to mark United Nations Day, bringing together environmental awareness, physical activity and cultural exchange.

The event was organised in partnership with the non-governmental organisation Yash Tebigatchy (Young Naturalist) and other partners.

Key facts

• Date: 24 October 2026
• Place: International Scientific and Technological Park of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat
• Organisers: UNDP Turkmenistan, with Yash Tebigatchy (Young Naturalist) and other partners
• Participants: young activists, environmentalists, university students and young professionals
• Themes: climate solutions, environmental innovation, environmental diplomacy, digital technology and science

Young people are also at the centre of climate action elsewhere: read about youth climate leaders gathering ahead of the Antalya climate summit in our earlier coverage of youth climate engagement.

Source: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Turkmenistan, 24 October 2026, independently reported by News Central Asia.

Frequently asked questions

What was the Ashgabat youth climate conference?

It was a youth conference on climate solutions and environmental innovation held in Ashgabat on 24 October 2026, organised by UNDP Turkmenistan with Yash Tebigatchy and other partners.

Who took part?

Young activists, environmentalists, university students and young professionals from Turkmenistan.

What did participants discuss?

They discussed environmental diplomacy, local contributions to global climate goals, and how digital technology, science and engineering innovation can support sustainable development.

What is Turkmenistan’s Fifth National Communication on Climate Change?

It is the country’s national report prepared under the UNFCCC, supported by a UNDP and UNEP project, within which the conference was organised.

Why was the conference held on 24 October?

It formed part of activities marking United Nations Day, alongside wider youth and environmental events.