Turkmen Youth Advocate for Global Collaboration at UNESCO Youth Forum

Turkmen Youth Advocate for Global Collaboration at UNESCO Youth Forum

by Shagadam Bayramdurdyyev

In a groundbreaking move, Novruz Nurberdiyev, a 4th-year student majoring in International Public Law at IUHD, proudly represented Turkmenistan at the 13th edition of the UNESCO Youth Forum held in Paris, France. The event, which took place from November 14 to 15, 2023, was an integral part of the 42nd session of the UNESCO General Conference running from November 7 to 22, 2023.

The primary focus of the 13th UNESCO Youth Forum was to address the pressing issue of climate change and to provide a platform for youth participants to express their views, ideas, and innovative solutions within the broader framework of the General Conference. Approximately 170 youth delegates from 150 countries, along with 33 youth ministers, congregated to deliberate on the global impact of climate change and propose strategies for tackling the challenges it poses to society.

Turkmenistan's delegation, comprising representatives such as Yazpolat Keriyev, Head of the Central Council of the Magtymguly Youth Organization, Ambassador Maksat Charyyev, the Permanent Delegate of Turkmenistan to UNESCO, and the 4th year student of IUHD Novruz Nurberdiyev, made a significant mark at the international forum.

This year's UNESCO Youth Forum is particularly special for Turkmenistan as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of cooperation between the country and UNESCO. The participation of Turkmen youth on that forum, in the year of "Happy Youth with Arkadag Serdar," underscores the youth’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and addressing global challenges.

The opening ceremony of the forum commenced with the reading of UNESCO's address to the youth participants. The agenda included bilateral meetings between youth ministers and the head of the UNESCO Youth Department, a special session facilitating interaction between ministers and forum participants, and collaborative efforts to draft the final document of the Youth Forum. Furthermore, the event showcased innovative projects presented by youth delegates and facilitated discussions to shape the UNESCO program and budget for the years 2026-2029.

During the special session between Youth Ministers and forum participants, the exchange of ideas and questions aimed at implementing practical solutions demonstrated the active engagement of the young participants. Novruz Nurberdiyev was moderator on that session. The forum provided a platform for participants to share their experiences, ideas, and innovative solutions to address the social challenges posed by climate change.

The Magtymguly Youth Organization of Turkmenistan's entry into the World Youth Community of UNESCO and the participation of Turkmen students in the 13th UNESCO Youth Forum mark significant milestones. These developments underscore the increasing role of the young generation on the UNESCO platform, showcasing Turkmenistan's dedication to promoting international cooperation and addressing global issues.

Looking ahead, as active members of the World Youth Society of UNESCO, Turkmen youth are poised to implement various activities aimed at strengthening and developing international cooperation with youth worldwide. The commitment to studying, improving, and implementing global experiences in international arena and youth cooperation reflects Turkmenistan's determination to contribute dedicatedly to the international community.

Shagadam BAYRAMDURDYYEV,

Instructor of International Relations department of IUHD