YPAG 2026 “Meet and Greet” Strengthens Youth Engagement in Tajikistan

Dushanbe, 10 April 2026 - UNICEF in Tajikistan convened the YPAG 2026 “Meet and Greet”, bringing together members of the Young People’s Advisory Group (YPAG), government partners, United Nations Resident Coordinator, and UNICEF Representative to Tajikistan to strengthen collaboration and advance meaningful youth engagement.

The event created a platform for dialogue between young people and decision-makers, opening with team-building activities and followed by a high-level panel discussion on child rights, youth participation, and inclusive development. A total of 88 young people from across Tajikistan joined this year's YPAG. 

An interactive session with the UNICEF Representative, Arthur van Diesen, allowed young people to share their perspectives and priorities directly. Discussions also highlighted the impact of climate change on children in Tajikistan and the critical role of youth in driving climate action.

A second panel discussion brought together UNICEF staff and YPAG members to exchange experiences and insights on youth engagement. UNICEF specialists, alongside YPAG representatives, discussed practical approaches to strengthening youth participation in programme design and implementation.

"Throughout the event, we had panel discussions with experts and young activists who raised important issues and shared valuable insights. I was especially excited and honored to be a moderator for one of the discussions and gain a meaningful experience," Samaya Kudratova, YPAG member.

Participants took part in a series of interactive workshops aimed at building practical skills and knowledge. Sessions covered a wide range of topics, including digital marketing and social media, artificial intelligence (AI), green skills, financial literacy, and public speaking. The workshops were conducted in rotating groups, ensuring that all participants had the opportunity to engage across multiple thematic areas.

The YPAG 2026 “Meet and Greet” reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to empowering young people as key partners in advancing the rights and well-being of children and adolescents in Tajikistan. By creating spaces for meaningful participation and dialogue, UNICEF continues to support youth in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.