UNV Report Highlights Volunteering in Central Asia: A Catalyst for Regional Development
Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme has released its inaugural regional report, titled “Overview of Volunteering in Central Asia.” This groundbreaking document consolidates data on the volunteer movement across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
The report highlights numerous examples of how volunteers address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. These include efforts to improve rural school conditions, organize educational events, and plant trees as part of environmental initiatives. In addition, the report examines challenges faced by volunteers and provides recommendations for advancing the movement, such as developing educational programs for volunteers, implementing digital platforms for project coordination, and fostering collaboration with businesses.
The document emphasizes the significant contributions of volunteers to regional development and proposes actionable steps to enhance their impact. Key topics include the current state of volunteering in Central Asian countries, inspiring success stories, and specific recommendations for NGOs, government agencies, and local communities.
Special attention is given to youth, who comprise 60% of the volunteer force in the region. “Volunteering is a bridge between generations, a tool for uniting people around common goals, and a powerful resource for the sustainable development of the region,” the report states.
Volunteering is deeply rooted in regional culture. In Turkmenistan, the tradition of “yovar,” where neighbors collaborate to solve shared problems, has been practiced for centuries. Today, these traditions are evolving, with volunteers participating in major sporting events, conducting environmental campaigns, and supporting families in challenging circumstances.
“Overview of Volunteering in Central Asia” serves as a valuable guide for individuals aspiring to contribute to societal development and embark on their volunteering journey.
