COP29: Tajikistan to consider integrating the involvement of children and young people in climate action into national climate policies

BAKU/DUSHANBE, 16 November 2024 - The Committee of Environmental Protection of the Government of Tajikistan and UNICEF held a side event at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, hosted by the Chairman of the Committee of Environmental Protection of Tajikistan, Mr. Bahodur Sheralizoda, and attended by UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Kitty van der Heijden.

During the event, the Government of Tajikistan expressed its intention to consider integrating comprehensive child-centered approaches to climate action into national climate policies, including the NDC 3.0, the National Communication, and the Early Warning for All (EW4ALL) initiative. The government also committed to engaging members of the Tajik Youth for Water and Climate Network in decision-making processes to ensure meaningful impact for children in Tajikistan.

In addition, the latest evidence on the impact of climate change on children in Tajikistan was presented. The evidence shared highlighted the urgent need to fully integrate children's needs into national climate plans and policies, and the importance of involving young people in climate solutions and decision-making.

Climate-related crises in Tajikistan lead to economic losses ranging from 0.4 to 1.3 percent of the country's GDP annually, adding to the financial burden of already vulnerable communities and impacting the country’s economic growth.

The event was also attended by the Deputy Director General of the Central and West Asia Department (CWRD) of the Asian Development Bank Ms. Xiaohong Yang, and Regional Climate Officer, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, U.S Department of State Ms. Janet Kennedy, who emphasized the urgent need for development partners to provide immediate and active support to climate change mitigation efforts that help address the impacts faced by the most vulnerable, children.

“Tajikistan has long recognized the escalating impact of climate change on vulnerable communities, particularly children. In this regard, we recently took an important step forward by signing the Declaration on Children, Youth, and Climate Action. This declaration reflects our determination to accelerate inclusive climate policies and actions that prioritize the well-being of children and youth. We recognize that young people are not only the future of Tajikistan but are also essential contributors today, bringing energy, innovative thinking, and a genuine desire for change,” said Mr. Sheralizoda in his opening remarks.