Uzbekistan Strengthens Disaster Preparedness and Climate Resilience for Children

TASHKENT, 14 April 2026— The Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the United Nations Children’s Fund signed a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a long-term framework for cooperation to strengthen disaster preparedness systems and climate resilience for children, youth and local communities across the country.

The Memorandum provides a structured platform for advancing cooperation in child-centered disaster risk reduction, preparedness planning and resilience-building initiatives. It expands joint efforts of partner organizations aimed at building safer environments for children and communities across the country.

“This Memorandum marks a transition to a new stage of cooperation between the Ministry of Emergency Situations and UNICEF,” said Azizbek Ikramov, Minister of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Uzbekistan. “It reflects our shared commitment to strengthening disaster risk reduction systems and ensuring the safety and well-being of children across Uzbekistan.”

The agreement outlines cooperation in strengthening institutional capacities at national and local levels, expanding preparedness education for children and communities, supporting inclusive approaches for children with disabilities, promoting evidence-based planning and advancing innovative training tools for emergency preparedness. It also supports implementation of Uzbekistan’s priorities under the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030.

The partnership builds on ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Emergency Situations and UNICEF, including implementation of the nationwide Comprehensive School Safety Assessment covering approximately 1,100 schools, strengthening shock-responsive social protection mechanisms and advancing community engagement approaches to support child-centered preparedness systems across Uzbekistan.

“Strengthening preparedness systems is essential to protecting children and families from the growing risks posed by disasters and climate change,” said Regina Castillo, UNICEF Representative in Uzbekistan. “Through this partnership, UNICEF will continue supporting national institutions in building stronger and more resilient systems that safeguard every child.”

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