Turkmenistan Celebrates World Children’s Day 2025 with Focus on Inclusion

Turkmenistan has marked World Children’s Day 2025 under the theme “Neutrality and Humanism: Comprehensive Support for an Inclusive Future,” highlighting disability inclusion and the importance of coordinated support across all sectors.

The celebration, held at the Ashgabat Olympic Village Tennis Complex, was organized by the Charity Fund for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship named after Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov in partnership with UNICEF Turkmenistan, with participation from key ministries, civil society, UN agencies, and diplomats, The Caspian Post reports via Turkmen media.

A puzzle wall served as the centerpiece, symbolizing six areas of child support-education, health, social protection, rehabilitation, sport, and community engagement. Distinguished guests placed symbolic pieces on the “Wall of Inclusion,” reaffirming a commitment to ensuring every child can thrive.

Children with and without disabilities took part in sports, games, and creative activities, while parents attended expert sessions to gain practical guidance on supporting children’s development. Highlights included inclusive tennis demonstrations, performances by children from the Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Center, and a tennis tournament where children played side by side, promoting equality and breaking stereotypes.

Opening remarks by Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice President for Medical Activities of the Charity Fund, emphasized that participation in sports and joint activities builds physical strength, social skills, and resilience while fostering an inclusive society. UNICEF Representative Jalpa Ratna noted, “When every institution contributes its piece, children thrive,” highlighting Turkmenistan’s commitment to an inclusive future.

The event builds on initiatives from the March 2025 international conference “Year of Peace and Trust: International Cooperation for the Sake of Children,” expanding inclusive education, early intervention, rehabilitation, and family support.

World Children’s Day 2025 also aligns with Turkmenistan’s 30th anniversary of Permanent Neutrality, reinforcing national priorities of peace, well-being, and inclusion. The government reiterated its commitment to strengthening disability-inclusive policies and services in partnership with the United Nations.

The celebration sent a powerful message: building an inclusive future is a shared effort-and every piece matters.