On May 29, the launch of the assessment of the social protection system using the Core Diagnostic Instrument (CODI) was held in Ashgabat.

The assessment is being conducted by the Government of Turkmenistan in partnership with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the World Bank.

The assessment in Turkmenistan aims to ensure more effective, equitable and inclusive social services, with a particular focus on needy and vulnerable groups, according to a UNICEF press release.

The CODI tool is a comprehensive methodology for assessing the performance of national social protection systems - identifying their strengths, identifying existing gaps and proposing evidence-based ways to improve.

The launch of the assessment was attended by the Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population, the Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy, specialists from these ministries, as well as representatives of UNICEF Turkmenistan, the ILO and the World Bank.

Alexander Nartea, UNICEF Deputy Representative in Turkmenistan:

"The launch of the CODI tool marks the beginning of an important journey towards strengthening the social protection system in Turkmenistan, based on evidence, inclusion and shared responsibility. This assessment will help us better understand how to reach every child, every family and every person in need with effective and sustainable support. Social protection is not just assistance, it is the foundation of inclusive development and national resilience. UNICEF is proud to support this initiative together with the Government and partners to ensure that no one is left behind."