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18 July 2026
Nelson Mandela Day | United Nations
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02 July 2026
No Country Can Govern AI Alone | Inside the UN's Global Dialogue on AI Governance
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30 June 2026
UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan Sarangoo Radnaaragchaa addresses the Scientific and Practical Conference "The New Constitution: The Institutional and Legal Foundation for Sustainable Development"
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Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals in Kazakhstan
The United Nations system in Kazakhstan firmly supports the country’s aspiration to join the ranks of the world’s 30 most developed nations by achieving OECD standards. We remain convinced that the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals provide an effective framework that can support Kazakhstan in successfully advancing its development priorities, as outlined in the Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy and subsequent reform programmes.
Press Release
12 June 2026
How small grants help build stronger communities and sustainable solutions in Kazakhstan
Over the past three years, programme participants implemented 25 initiatives across 10 regions of Kazakhstan, including Almaty, Akmola, East Kazakhstan, Karaganda, Kostanay, Kyzylorda and Turkistan regions, as well as the Abai, Zhetysu and Ulytau regions. One of the key outcomes of the Seventh Operational Phase was strengthening the capacity of local communities and civil society organizations. By implementing their own initiatives, rural residents gained hands-on experience throughout the entire project cycle from identifying challenges and designing solutions to managing finances, procurement, implementation and results monitoring. This practical experience helps build the skills needed for more meaningful participation in local development and decision-making processes.“Sustainable territorial development is impossible without the active participation of local residents. By supporting community-led initiatives, we are not only addressing environmental challenges but also strengthening the capacity of local communities and creating opportunities for greater citizen engagement in the development of their regions,”said Shattyk Tastemirova, Deputy Director of the Climate Policy Department of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan.The Seventh Operational Phase reached 25,900 direct beneficiaries, including women, men and young people. Thousands of households adopted sustainable agroecological practices and sustainable land management approaches, while more than 120 organizations gained access to renewable energy and energy-efficiency technologies.The practical experience gained by local communities was accompanied by significant environmental outcomes. As a result of the supported projects, 87,700 hectares of degraded land were restored, greenhouse gas emissions were reduced by 23,200 tonnes, and 124,000 hectares of landscapes are now under sustainable community-based management. In addition, seven practices and technologies have been replicated and adopted by other communities. “The Small Grants Programme is both a learning platform and an investment in people and local communities. By taking projects from concept to implementation, including equipment procurement and ensuring long-term sustainability, community members gain practical experience in planning, resource management and results evaluation. These skills lay the foundation for sustainable local development and stronger local leadership,”said Sukhrob Khojimatov, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Kazakhstan.The event brought together representatives of government institutions, UNDP, the National Steering Committee of the Small Grants Programme, local communities and civil society organizations. The programme featured panel discussions with grantees, beneficiaries and project partners, as well as a knowledge fair showcasing project achievements and innovative solutions.Supported initiatives included projects on youth climate education, agroecology schools, sustainable agricultural practices, land restoration, renewable energy development and waste management. The results of the Seventh Operational Phase demonstrate that small grants can serve as an effective development tool, enabling communities to implement sustainable solutions while contributing to Kazakhstan’s national environmental and climate goals. ***Local Action = Global ImpactUNDP launched the Small Grants Programme in 1992 as a GEF pilot programme. The programme aims to support the development of non-governmental and non-profit organisations (NGOs) working in the GEF focal areas. Today, the GEF Small Grants Programme operates in 127 countries.The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (SGP) has been providing financial and technical support to civil society and community-based organizations at the local level to drive initiatives that address global environmental issues while improving livelihoods for over 30 years. Since 1997, it has supported 374 projects throughout Kazakhstan in the areas of biodiversity, land degradation, climate change, chemicals and waste, and international waters.For more details on SGP’s work in the country, visit the SGP Kazakhstan page.For information on SGP’s global portfolio, visit the global SGP website.
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Press Release
29 June 2026
More Than 100,000 Children in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan Gain Water Conservation Knowledge and Skills
The project steering committee for the Water and Education project held its second meeting in Astana to review the initiative’s progress and agree on the next phase of implementation.With support from the French Development Agency (AFD), UNICEF is implementing the project in partnership with the governments of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Partners include the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, Ministry of Education, and the Information and Analytical Centre of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Preschool and School Education and Ministry of Water Resources of Uzbekistan, the International Innovation Centre for the Aral Sea Region, regional authorities, educational institutions, and the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea.Climate change is intensifying water scarcity across the Aral Sea region, one of the world's most vulnerable areas. Today, more than 55 per cent of children in Kazakhstan and 89 per cent of children in Uzbekistan experience water shortages, while 84 per cent of children in Kazakhstan and 91 per cent of children in Uzbekistan face exposure to extreme heat. These challenges directly affect children's health, learning, and development – limiting their opportunities for a healthy and prosperous future.The project helps children and adolescents understand the value of water while equipping them with practical skills to use it responsibly at school, at home, and in their communities."This project is an important example of effective regional cooperation in addressing one of the region’s most pressing challenges – water scarcity," said Raushan Ibrasheva, Acting Deputy Representative of UNICEF in Kazakhstan. "Our goal is not only to provide knowledge but also to encourage lasting behavioural changes so that every child can become an agent of change and contribute to water conservation in their daily lives."The project has already delivered significant results. In Kazakhstan, more than 67,000 children and 1,700 teachers have participated in project activities. Ten resource schools and 45 partner schools have introduced water conservation practices and established water clubs that engage more than 27,000 children. Schools have organized more than 2,800 learning sessions and nearly 5,000 events. Partners have also developed more than 570 educational resources, including the innovative Su Sandygy learning toolkit. Awareness campaigns have reached hundreds of thousands of children through in-person activities and more than 1.6 million children and young people online.In Uzbekistan, more than 50,000 students from 1,000 schools have taken part in water conservation education programmes. Information campaigns have reached more than 80,000 people, while 141 students in pilot schools have developed practical water-saving skills. The project has also established a network of 113 youth climate leaders, who have engaged around 500 additional young people. The programme combines classroom learning with hands-on activities, including water filtration, hydroponics, environmental journalism and community action.Schools participating in the project are introducing water-saving technologies, including drip irrigation, water filtration systems, and efficient water management solutions. These practical demonstrations allow children to see sustainable solutions in action and apply them in their daily lives. Schools are becoming centres for developing lasting habits that children carry into their families and communities, extending the project's long-term impact.During the next phase, partners will establish water-saving infrastructure in schools, integrate water conservation and climate topics into national curricula, strengthen youth engagement and volunteer initiatives, and deepen regional cooperation on water resource management. The Water and Education project demonstrates that investing in children's knowledge and practical skills today is helping build a generation capable of managing water resources responsibly and adapting to the challenges of climate change.
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Publication
15 January 2026
The United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026-2030 for Kazakhstan
The United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (Cooperation Framework) 2026-2030 for Kazakhstan is a bold and transformative blueprint designed to accelerate progress towards sustainable development. Anchored in national priorities and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, this Cooperation Framework represents a strategic partnership between the UN Country Team and the Government of Kazakhstan, ensuring that no one is left behind as the country advances towards inclusive prosperity. The Cooperation Framework is the result of analytical, consultative and collaborative work of the UN Country Team with the Government, civil society, experts, youth representatives and private sector. These partners were involved in two foresight exercises, through focus group discussions and other consultations. Regional UN offices and Issue-Based Coalitions were consulted as well.Kazakhstan, an upper-middle-income country, has made remarkable strides in economic growth, social progress, and institutional development. With a diverse and resource-rich economy, the country has maintained strong growth, yet it faces challenges such as heavy reliance on oil exports, regional economic disparities, demographic shifts, and environmental sustainability concerns. The UN Country Team, leveraging its expertise, convening power, and commitment to international norms, will support Kazakhstan in overcoming these challenges while fostering innovation, resilience, and equity.
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Story
05 June 2026
UN Global Compact Regional Office for Central Asia Opens in Almaty
Located at 157 Zhamakayeva Street, the office will serve as a platform for engagement with companies across the region on sustainable development and responsible business conduct.The regional office will support the promotion of the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption, as well as broader private sector engagement in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.The opening ceremony brought together representatives of government agencies, the United Nations system, the business and financial sectors, international organizations and partners.Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan Aida Balayeva noted:“Opening the office of the UN Global Compact is an important event for the entire region and another step towards strengthening partnership with the United Nations in promoting the principles of sustainable development, inclusivity and social responsibility. Today, partnership between business, government and civil society is key to addressing global challenges. I am confident that the new office will become an effective platform for dialogue and joint efforts towards a sustainable and just future for Central Asia.” Madina Abylkassymova, Chair of the Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market, highlighted the importance of sustainable finance for the region’s development:“ESG principles are becoming a fundamental condition for long-term business growth. The opening of the Global Compact office in Central Asia demonstrates the region’s growing role in the global sustainable development agenda and creates new opportunities for further cooperation.” UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan Sarangoo Radnaaragchaa said the opening of the office reflects the growing engagement of companies in the region in advancing sustainable development:“The new office creates additional opportunities to strengthen regional cooperation and engage the private sector as a key partner in advancing sustainable development. In the context of challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, demographic shifts and technological transformation, strong partnerships between governments, the United Nations, business and civil society are essential.”Umut Shayakhmetova, Chair of the Board of the UN Global Compact Network in Central Asia, acknowledged the contribution of partners and the Network’s team to the establishment of the regional office, noting that the work towards its opening had taken several years. Dinara Seidzhaparova, Executive Director of the UN Global Compact Network in Central Asia, said that over the past three years the number of UN Global Compact participants from Central Asian countries had increased approximately fivefold:“This growing interest was one of the factors that contributed to the establishment of the regional office. The new office will support companies in the region in implementing sustainability principles, developing partnerships and exchanging experience.”The regional office will facilitate cooperation between business, government institutions and international partners, and provide companies in the region with access to international tools and practices in corporate sustainability and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.
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Story
29 May 2026
Peacekeeper from Kazakhstan to be honoured posthumously at UN Headquarters ceremony
The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers is observed every year on 29 May, honoring the women and men who serve in UN peacekeeping operations and remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the cause of peace.This year, on Friday, 5 June 2026, a special ceremony will be held at UN Headquarters in New York, where Secretary-General António Guterres will lay a wreath in tribute to peacekeepers and preside over a ceremony at which the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal will be awarded posthumously to 68 military, police, and civilian peacekeepers, who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty, including 59 who perished in 2025.Among those peacekeepers to be honoured posthumously with the Dag Hammarskjold medal is one from Kazakhstan: Lieutenant Colonel Askar Mukhamedryssuly who died in October 2025 while serving with the UN Mission in South Sudan. Today, more than 50,000 civilian, military and police peacekeepers serve under the UN flag in some of the world’s most complex environments, where conflicts are increasingly fragmented, protracted, and shaped by emerging threats, including the misuse of digital tools and the spread of harmful information. A total of 118 countries currently contribute uniformed personnel to 11 peacekeeping missions. Kazakhstan first contributed to UN Peacekeeping in 2014. Today it is the 51st largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN Peacekeeping. It currently contributes 153 uniformed personnel to the UN peacekeeping operations in the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lebanon, the Middle East, South Sudan, and Western Sahara. In his message, Secretary-General António Guterres said: “On this International Day, we honour peacekeepers past and present and reaffirm our shared responsibility to respect and strengthen their work. We pay tribute to nearly 4,500 peacekeepers who have lost their lives since 1948, including 59 last year. No one should die serving the cause of peace. Attacks on peacekeepers are grave violations of international humanitarian law, and Member States must uphold their obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel at all times. In an era of rising tensions, peacekeeping is a proven and cost-effective way to restore stability and hope. But it requires steady political backing – and reliable financial support.” The Secretary-General will also present awards to the 2025 Military Gender Advocate of the Year, Major Abhilasha Barak of India, who serves in the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), and to the UN Woman Police Officer of the Year, Stephanie Königs of Germany, who served in UNMISS. “At a time of rising conflict and shrinking resources, United Nations peacekeepers continue to protect civilians, prevent violence from escalating, and keep hope alive in some of the world’s most difficult environments. Investing in peacekeeping means investing in stability, prevention and the possibility of peace itself,” said Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations. The General Assembly established the Day back in 2002 and selected May 29 as it was the day in 1948 when the Security Council established the first UN Peacekeeping operation, the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization in the Middle East.
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Story
22 May 2026
Biodiversity as a strategy for Kazakhstan’s future
Kazakhstan is home to some of Eurasia’s most diverse ecosystems - from vast steppe landscapes and mountain ranges to wetlands and the Caspian Sea coastline. The country lies along the migration routes of the saiga antelope, its high mountains provide habitat for the snow leopard, and the Caspian Sea is home to the endemic Caspian seal - a species found nowhere else in the world.These ecosystems are increasingly affected by climate change, land degradation, and growing pressure from industry and agriculture. As a result, biodiversity conservation in Kazakhstan is no longer seen solely as an environmental concern, but as an essential element of long-term economic resilience and quality of life.This direction is firmly embedded in national policy. Biodiversity conservation is included in the National Development Plan of the Republic of Kazakhstan through 2029 as part of the national priority “enhancing environmental sustainability.” The Environmental Code adopted in 2021 established the ecosystem approach as a mandatory principle of public administration, recognizing nature as a strategic asset that requires protection and long-term investment. The Seventh National Biodiversity Report of Kazakhstan reflects how this policy is being implemented in practice.The Seventh National Biodiversity Report: a baseline for actionIn 2025, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, with technical and expert support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), published the Seventh National Biodiversity Report - the official submission of the country under the Convention on Biological Diversity, which Kazakhstan joined in 1994.For the first time, the report was prepared using the standardized matrix framework of the Convention and a common set of global indicators. This enables comparison of Kazakhstan’s progress in biodiversity conservation with other countries and global biodiversity targets.Covering the period from 2019 to 2024, the report highlights both progress and ongoing challenges. For example, degraded pasturelands in Kazakhstan cover 28.1 million hectares, of which 2.06 million are severely degraded. Biodiversity data remain fragmented, particularly at the regional level. Ecosystems continue to face pressure from climate change, land degradation, habitat fragmentation, and human-induced impacts linked to infrastructure development, industry, and agriculture.At the same time, the report underscores an important transition: environmental policy of Kazakhstan is gradually moving beyond the protection of individual species and sites towards a more integrated system of natural resource governance.Protected areas and ecosystems managementOne of the most notable achievements of recent years has been the expansion of Kazakhstan’s protected area network. While 9.9 percent of Kazakhstan's territory was under protection in 2019, by 2025 this figure had increased to 11.3 percent, with the total protected area rising from 28.7 million to 30.9 million hectares.The Katon-Karagai State National ParkPhoto: UNDP Kazakhstan/ Mukhamedzhan SamatulyThrough the partnership between UNDP, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), several new protected areas were established during this period: the Ulytau National Park (58,912 ha), the Bokeyorda Nature Reserve (343,040 ha), and the Kaspiy Itbalygy Marine Reserve (108,632 ha) – Kazakhstan’s first marine protected area created specifically to conserve the Caspian seal.Today, 14 protected areas in Kazakhstan are designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserves status, five of which received this status between 2019 and 2024.Approaches to conservation are also evolving. Protected areas are increasingly viewed not as isolated “islands,” but as part of a broader ecological network connected through habitats and wildlife migration corridors. Another key area of cooperation between UNDP, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, and the Global Environment Facility has focused on the sustainable forest management.Between 2018 and 2024, a project was implemented across mountain, floodplain, and saxaul forests in six regions of Kazakhstan: Abai, Almaty, East Kazakhstan, Zhambyl, Zhetysu, and Turkistan. The project covered 14 pilot protected areas and eight forestry enterprises across the Altai and Tien Shan mountain ranges, as well as the Charyn, Ili, and Syr Darya river basins.These forest ecosystems are not only habitats for rare species - they also play a critical role in carbon sequestration, soil protection, and maintaining water balance, all of which are essential for local communities and sustainable agriculture. At the same time, ecotourism is growing. Visitor centres and tourism routes are being developed in national parks, alongside support for local green businesses, many of which are led by rural women. For many regions, this provides an opportunity to both conserve nature and generate sustainable livelihoods. While national parks and reserves welcomed around 809,000 visitors in 2019, this number reached nearly three million in 2024. Increased public investment further reflects the growing recognition of biodiversity as part of national development policy rather than a stand-alone environmental agenda. Since 2020, government spending on protected areas has increased 2.6 times, reaching approximately USD 60 million in 2024. Overall biodiversity-related financing rose from KZT 29.5 billion in 2008 to KZT 795.1 billion in 2022.Sustainable species managementOne of the clearest indicators of progress is the recovery of wildlife population in their natural habitats.The recovery of the saiga antelope is widely recognized as one of the most significant examples of species restoration globally. In the early 2000s, poaching and disease brought the population to the brink of collapse. In 2019, Kazakhstan’s saiga population stood at 334,400 individuals; by 2024, it had grown to two million. This is considered one of the most remarkable recoveries of a migratory species worldwide.The snow leopard provides another example of how coordinated efforts by the Government, UNDP, and the scientific community are strengthening the conservation of rare species. Joint monitoring indicates that the population increased from 130 snow leopards in 2019 to an estimated 152–189 by 2024. Today approximately 70 percent of its range in Kazakhstan falls within protected areas.Snow leopard in the Almaty State Nature ReservePhoto: Saltore SaparbayevIn the Ile-Balkhash Nature Reserve efforts are ongoing to restore the kulan population. Since 2021, more than 100 animals have been reintroduced as part of a broader ecosystem restoration programme implemented by UNDP together with the Government of Kazakhstan. Today, Kazakhstan’s kulan population is estimated at around 4,600 individuals, making this one of the most successful wild reintroduction efforts globally. Kulans in the steppe ecosystems of KazakhstanPhoto: Oleg BelyalovThe National Biodiversity Report, therefore, serves not only as an assessment of progress but also as a foundation for the next phase of biodiversity policy in Kazakhstan. The path to 2035: from commitment to implementation In December 2025, Kazakhstan approved the Concept for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biodiversity for 2026–2035 - a strategic policy framework built around eight priority areas and 13 measurable indicators. The Concept was developed by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan with the participation of UNDP, the scientific community, civil society, and international experts.It is aligned with commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which sets the global vision of living in harmony with nature by 2050.The Concept marks a shift from reactive to proactive biodiversity governance.Key targets include:expanding the protected area network from 30.9 million to 33.2 million hectares by 2035 through the establishment of new protected areas;strengthening ecological corridors between protected areas;increasing forest area from 13.9 million to 14.7 million hectares;restoring degraded pasturelands;developing a comprehensive biodiversity monitoring system;conserving and restoring populations of rare species.The West Altai State Nature ReservePhoto: Alexander KlimenkoFor the first time, pastureland restoration has been defined as a standalone national priority. More than 28 million hectares of degraded land require science-based solutions, including rotational grazing systems, restoration planting, and improved land-use management.By 2035, Kazakhstan also aims to establish a fully operational digital biodiversity monitoring system, increasing ecosystem indicator coverage from 35 to 100 percent.Biodiversity as an investment in the planet’s future Kazakhstan is steadily advancing along a path in which local action aligns with global strategies and contributes meaningfully to protecting the planet’s natural heritage.The Seventh National Biodiversity Report demonstrated that the foundations for this transition are already in place - through the expansion of protected areas, legal and institutional reform, species restoration, sustainable ecosystem management, and the development of digital monitoring systems.The Biodiversity Concept through 2035 will determine how consistently this trajectory is implemented in the coming decade.What is happening here matters far beyond Kazakhstan - it matters for the future of the planet. Written by - Ainur Salimbayeva
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Story
22 April 2026
United Nations Supports Launch of Regional Ecological Summit 2026 in Astana
The Regional Ecological Summit 2026 (RES 2026) opened today in Astana, bringing together heads of state, senior government representatives, leaders of international organizations, development partners, financial institutions, experts, civil society and youth to advance coordinated responses to environmental and climate challenges in Central Asia. Hosted by the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan on 22–24 April 2026 in partnership with the United Nations and other regional and international stakeholders, the Summit serves as a high-level platform to strengthen regional cooperation, align priorities and promote practical solutions across interconnected systems of water, energy, land and food. Senior United Nations principals participating in the Summit include Mr. Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs; Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization; Ms. Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization; Mr. Haoliang Xu, Associate Administrator of UNDP and Under-Secretary-General; Ms. Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP and Under-Secretary-General; Ms. Tatiana Molcean, Executive Secretary of UNECE and Under-Secretary-General; and Mr. Kamal Kishore, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction and Assistant Secretary-General. “Global solutions must be rooted in regional realities, and supported by strong international cooperation. Sustainable development remains the pathway to peace, resilience and shared prosperity. This will require renewed commitment and intensive investment to bridge the gap to 2030,” noted Li Junhua, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs.The United Nations is a strategic partner of RES 2026 and is supporting the Summit as a platform for advancing regional cooperation on climate and environmental issues. Across the three days, 18 UN entities are involved in organizing 25 panel sessions and 5 seminars, bringing technical expertise, policy guidance and implementation experience across climate adaptation, water management, public health, disaster risk reduction, sustainable development, gender equality, youth engagement and ecosystem resilience. The Summit comes at a critical moment for Central Asia. The region is facing intensifying environmental pressures, including water scarcity, glacier retreat, land degradation and biodiversity loss. These risks are increasingly affecting economic resilience, food and energy systems, and human security, while many of the underlying challenges are transboundary in nature and require coordinated regional responses. A key expected outcome of RES 2026 is the adoption of a Joint Declaration by the Heads of State of Central Asia on regional environmental cooperation. The Summit will also announce the Programme of Action for the Implementation of Regional Ecological Initiatives in Partnership with the United Nations for 2026–2030: Shared Vision for a Resilient Future of Central Asia, prioritizing projects in areas including climate and ecology investment, nature-based solutions, regional environmental performance review, circular economy and the regional Green School platform. By convening political leadership, technical expertise and financing partners in one platform, RES 2026 aims to move from dialogue to implementation and reinforce Central Asia’s collective role in addressing environmental challenges through multilateral cooperation and shared action.
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Story
14 April 2026
Regional Ecological Summit 2026
The Regional Ecological Summit 2026 (RES 2026), initiated by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, will take place on 22–24 April 2026 in Astana, Kazakhstan. The United Nations is a strategic partner of the Summit, which will bring together governments, international organizations, and other stakeholders to advance environmental sustainability in Central Asia. Eighteen UN agencies are co-organizing 25 sessions and 5 workshops under key thematic areas related to climate action, environmental resilience, and sustainable development. The Summit will serve as a platform for promoting coordinated regional solutions to shared environmental challenges. A key outcome will be the adoption of a Joint Declaration by the Heads of State of Central Asia on regional environmental cooperation. In addition, a Programme of Action for 2026–2030, developed in partnership with the United Nations, will be launched to support a resilient and sustainable future for the region.RegistrationLearn more
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Press Release
20 May 2026
“UNICEF Zhastary” Youth Hub opens in Kokshetau
The inauguration of the hub was the centerpiece of a high-level UN delegation visit to the region. The event was attended by Sarangoo Radnaaragchaa, UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan; Dr. Rashed Mustafa Sarwar, UNICEF Representative in Kazakhstan; Nikita Shabayev, United Nations Volunteers (UNV) Country Coordinator in Kazakhstan; and Didar Temenov, Director of the Department of Multilateral Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan.As part of the visit, the delegation met with Dosulan Aitbayev, Deputy akim of the Akmola region, to discuss systemic measures to safeguard childhood in the region. A key milestone of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UNICEF and Shokan Ualikhanov University, formalizing the hub’s status as a permanent educational and social base for meaningful youth participation. Sarangoo Radnaaragchaa, UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan, noted: “Youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the driving force for change today. The opening of this hub in Kokshetau demonstrates our shared commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We are creating an environment where every young person’s voice is heard, and their drive to contribute to society receives tangible support.” Dr. Rashed Mustafa Sarwar, UNICEF Representative in Kazakhstan, emphasized the strategic importance of the new platform: “The ‘UNICEF Zhastary’ program is built on the ‘Learn – Share – Lead’ model. Through this new hub in Kokshetau, young people will gain not only knowledge on child rights and mental health, but also a space to connect, create, and lead initiatives that benefit their communities. Volunteers then pass this knowledge on to their peers through a peer-to-peer approach. Across Kazakhstan, volunteering is increasingly becoming a powerful expression of active citizenship among young people, and we are proud to support a new generation committed to building a safer, more inclusive, and child-friendly society.” Didar Temenov, Director of the Department of Multilateral Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, highlighted the initiative's significance within the framework of state policy: “At Kazakhstan’s initiative, the United Nations proclaimed 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers. The opening of this hub in Kokshetau is another step toward expanding this powerful movement. Here in the Akmola region, volunteering will become a catalyst for shaping a new generation of leaders for whom the best interests of the child are an absolute priority.”The new space is designed as a modern coworking area, featuring:Collaborative zones equipped with digital tools;A professional media studio for recording podcasts and creating educational content;A specialized library focused on child rights, protection, and mental health.Furthermore, volunteers have access to a dedicated educational platform that offers specialized online courses and a tailored system for individual volunteer assignments.The establishment of the Kokshetau hub is part of the national “UNICEF Zhastary” network, which already connects more than 10,000 volunteers. The program’s results are impactful: in 2025 alone, volunteers across Kazakhstan collected over 500 tons of waste, planted more than 20,000 trees, and conducted educational sessions for over 100,000 children on child rights and digital safety. The total media reach of the program’s initiatives has exceeded 1 million people.Over the next two years, UNICEF plans to engage up to 20,000 young people in the volunteer movement and reach more than 2 million children through online projects and six regional hubs nationwide. The new center in Kokshetau is open to all active citizens aged 16 to 35—including schoolchildren, students, and young professionals—ready to develop leadership skills and advocate for every child.
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Press Release
14 April 2026
Universities’ role in advancing the SDGs discussed in Astana
The roundtable was organized for the first time for heads of higher education institutions and university departments responsible for implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in Kazakhstan. It aimed to generate practical recommendations to address existing challenges and facilitate the exchange of best practices. Representatives of 89 universities across Kazakhstan participated in the event. In her opening remarks, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan, Ms. Sarangoo Radnaaragchaa, noted: “Universities are at the heart of sustainable development processes and should be seen not only as educational institutions but also as key partners. Through education, research, and innovation, they are capable of generating practical solutions and supporting their implementation at national and local levels. In this regard, strengthening international cooperation and partnerships with universities is essential for advancing sustainable development and achieving the SDGs.” An active exchange of views and best practices continued through interactive group discussions structured around thematic areas, including: integrating SDG principles into university governance; universities as drivers of skills for sustainable development; university research as a factor in sustainable transformation; strengthening the role of students as leaders in SDG implementation; fostering gender-inclusive university environments; enhancing partnerships between universities and stakeholders; and developing human capital within universities. As a result of the roundtable, participants developed practical recommendations aimed at enhancing the integration of sustainable development principles into Kazakhstan’s higher education system.
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Press Release
04 March 2026
UN Resident Coordinator Meets with the Chairman of the Senate of Kazakhstan to Discuss Advancing the Sustainable Development Agenda
The sides discussed key areas of cooperation between the United Nations and Kazakhstan, including advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), utilizing international expertise in the legislative process, and further strengthening partnership in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Particular attention was given to the work of the Senate and the Parliamentary Commission on monitoring the implementation of national SDG targets, as well as Kazakhstan’s leadership role in promoting sustainable development.During the meeting, the participants also discussed SDG-aligned budget planning, increasing women’s representation in Parliament, implementation of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) recommendations, as well as preparations for regional initiatives and the environmental agenda within the framework of the Regional Environmental Summit.The sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation between the UN system and the Parliament of Kazakhstan to accelerate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
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Press Release
25 February 2026
UN and EU Launch Regional Programme to Advance Gender Equality and Prevent Gender-Based Violence in Central Asia
The programme, titled “Challenging Harmful Attitudes and Norms for Gender Equality (CHANGE)” will be jointly implemented by UNDP, UNFPA and UN Women, working closely with national authorities, civil society organizations and the private sector.“Empowerment of women and girls, prevention of all forms of gender-based violence and promotion of lasting measurable progress in gender equality is crucial for further development of the region. The CHANGE, that reflects the strong partnership between the European Union and the United Nations, will be another programme supporting the efforts and cooperating with the countries of Central Asia in advancing the gender equality in the region,” highlighted Ms. Aleška Simkić, Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Kazakhstan. Despite progress in legislation and policy frameworks, prevention of gender‑based violence remains a priority in Central Asia, where UN estimates indicate that around one in three women and girls has experienced violence in her lifetime, while pervasive stigma and silence continue to suppress reporting. Recent regional trends show rising numbers of registered incidents across multiple countries, reflecting both increased awareness and persistent gaps in protection.“Gender-based violence cannot be addressed by institutions alone — it demands sustained societal change,” said Ms. Sarangoo Radnaaragchaa, UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan. “The United Nations is committed to advancing gender equality and supporting solutions that address the root causes of gender-based violence through inclusive dialogue and long-lasting partnerships.” The programme is expected to contribute to a reduction of gender-based violence in Central Asia by promoting social norms that increasingly reflect zero tolerance for violence; strengthening the capacity, coordination and advocacy of civil society organizations to prevent and respond to GBV; and expanding women’s economic empowerment and access to sustainable livelihoods, recognising economic independence as a key protective factor against violence.“Gender-based violence is not only a human rights violation but a major barrier to inclusive and sustainable development,” said Katarzyna Wawiernia, UNDP Resident Representative. “Through this Multi-Country Programme, the United Nations and the European Union are combining expertise, partnerships and resources to support governments in delivering practical, measurable change.”Deeply rooted discriminatory social norms reinforce these risks: the 2023 Gender Social Norms Index shows high levels of gender bias across Central Asia, with the vast majority of respondents expressing at least one discriminatory attitude towards women and widespread tolerance of intimate partner violence in some contexts. Technology‑facilitated violence is also becoming a significant concern, with substantial proportions of women reporting online harassment and intimidation.“The launch of the CHANGE programme underscores the power of partnerships in our collective journey to eliminate all forms of GBV, a pervasive human rights violation, by prioritizing evidence-based strategic pathways at legislative, policy, system, household and individual levels”, said Chinwe Ogbonna, UNFPA Country Representative in Kazakhstan and Country Director for Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan. “Together, the European Union, United Nations and national partners across Central Asia, can, and will contribute meaningful results for the women and girls we serve, as we count down to Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development”. At the same time, economic inequalities, including lower female labour‑force participation and the disproportionate burden of unpaid care, limit women’s ability to seek safety and support. Evidence across the region indicates that sustainable progress requires long‑term prevention efforts that challenge harmful attitudes, strengthen community‑based actors and expand women’s economic opportunities. By taking a regional approach, the programme will support countries in addressing shared challenges, exchanging lessons learned and reinforcing prevention efforts at scale.“Civil society lies at the heart of effective prevention efforts, especially those working on the front lines to challenge harmful norms and support women and girls,” said Dr. Ceren Güven Güres, Head of the UN Women Central Asia Liaison Office and Representative of the Kazakhstan Country Office. “Through the EU-UN CHANGE programme we are strengthening these frontline actors, expanding women’s opportunities, and driving the social transformations needed to reduce gender‑based violence across Central Asia.” The programme will run from 2026 to 2028 and cover all five countries in Central Asia, creating a shared regional framework to address gender-based violence while responding to national priorities and local realities.
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Press Release
17 February 2026
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Meets with UN Country Team in Almaty
Almaty, 14 February 2026 – The United Nations Country Team in Kazakhstan met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev to discuss the continued strengthening of cooperation in support of sustainable development priorities. During the meeting, the parties reviewed key areas of collaboration under the new United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2026–2030. The UN Country Team presented its strategic priorities for the upcoming programme cycle, outlining planned initiatives aimed at advancing inclusive economic growth, environmental sustainability, digital transformation, social protection, and strengthened institutions.The discussions reaffirmed the shared commitment of Kazakhstan and the United Nations to the principles of the UN Charter and to deepening multilateral cooperation in addressing national, regional, and global challenges. Particular attention was given to the development of the UN Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty, which is expected to serve as a platform for regional knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, and capacity-building in support of the 2030 Agenda.The parties also discussed preparations for the upcoming Regional Ecological Summit to be held on 22–24 April, as well as continued collaboration on regional water cooperation initiatives, including consultations related to the proposal to establish an International Water Organization within the UN system. In the context of Kazakhstan’s ongoing digital transformation, the meeting highlighted the importance of advancing the initiative to establish the UN ESCAP Asian and Pacific Digital Solutions Centre for Sustainable Development in Almaty, further strengthening the country’s role as a regional hub for innovation and sustainable development solutions.The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the mutual interest in enhancing coordination, expanding joint initiatives, and ensuring effective implementation of the Cooperation Framework in the interests of sustainable development in Kazakhstan and the wider region.
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15 January 2026
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