Turkmenistan and UNDP have launched new initiatives to strengthen the electoral system and provide legal assistance: a number of strategic agreements have been signed aimed at strengthening and developing a long-term partnership in achieving national development priorities.

In particular, the following documents were signed to support Turkmenistan in accelerating progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals for the period up to 2030, such as:

The project “Assistance in building the capacity of the Central Commission for Conducting Elections and Referendums in Turkmenistan”, aimed at supporting the electoral system and improving the qualifications of election commissions of Turkmenistan through the exchange of best international experience and the organization of relevant training events. The project is funded by the Government of Turkmenistan and will be implemented jointly with the Central Commission for Elections and Referendums in Turkmenistan.

The project “Increasing the capacity of the Bar Associations of Turkmenistan in the field of ensuring human rights”, aimed at improving the quality of legal assistance in accordance with international standards. The project is funded by the UK Government and will be implemented jointly with the Presidium of the Ashgabat Bar Association.

Tomica Paovic, Acting UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan noted:

“As our partnership with the Government of Turkmenistan deepens, these new initiatives mark another important step towards achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. By strengthening electoral reform and strengthening the legal workforce, we aim to advance the country's rule of law agenda and build a more inclusive, fair and sustainable future for all.”