Tajikistan and UNICEF Discuss Protecting Children from Environmental Risks and Building Green Skills

Climate education, environmental safety and soil pollution risk assessment were central to a meeting between Bahadur Sheralizoda, Chairman of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of Tajikistan, and Gabriella Akimova, the newly appointed UNICEF Representative in the country. The meeting took place on 11 September 2026.

The parties reviewed cooperation priorities aligned with Tajikistan’s National Development Strategy through 2030, alongside priorities for the 2027 Joint Work Plan. Sheralizoda congratulated Akimova on her appointment and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation on climate change and environmental literacy among children and young people.

Particular attention was given to a joint initiative to use artificial intelligence to map soil pollution and risks associated with pesticide use. The initiative was discussed within the framework of cooperation through the National Center for the Implementation of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, with a particular focus on potential impacts on children and communities.

The parties also considered the development of Tajikistan’s Nationally Determined Contribution — NDC 3.0, including provisions concerning children and young people, climate education and green skills development.

The areas discussed connect environmental protection with safeguarding children’s interests and preparing younger generations to respond to climate challenges.

📌 Source: Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan