Turkmenistan advances dialogue on social protection

ASHGABAT (ILO News) – The International Labour Organization (ILO), together with UNICEF and the World Bank, participated in consultations on the results of the Core Diagnostic Instrument (CODI) social protection system assessment in Turkmenistan on 20-21 May 2026. Led by UNICEF, with substantial contributions from the ILO and the World Bank, this initiative reflects the shared commitment of the three organizations to supporting Turkmenistan in building a more inclusive and sustainable social protection system.

The consultations brought together representatives of government institutions, the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, local authorities, public organizations and development partners to discuss approaches to strengthening inclusive and sustainable social protection systems in line with national development priorities and ILO social security standards. The discussions covered social protection policy development, institutional coordination and measures to improve access to social protection. The CODI assessment analyses the appropriateness, effectiveness, and responsiveness of Turkmenistan’s main social protection schemes and services and, as such, provides an evidence-based platform for further developing integrated policies and promoting more inclusive and sustainable systems.

Key recommendations included the development of a comprehensive National Social Protection Strategy integrating social security, social services and employment promotion measures, supported by phased implementation and long-term planning, as outlined in the Roadmap and the Social Protection Floors Recommendation, 2012 (No. 202).

One session focused specifically on the Social Security (Minimum Standards) Convention, 1952 (No. 102), which the Government of Turkmenistan has identified as a priority for ratification. ILO experts provided an overview of the Convention provisions, ratification requirements and the technical support available to Member States to align their national legislation and practice with this landmark Convention.

© ILO

© ILO

Building on the CODI findings, the ILO will now undertake a comparative assessment of Turkmenistan's national legislation and practice against the requirements of Convention No. 102. Together, these two complementary workstreams will provide the government and social partners with a robust evidence base to guide continued efforts to strengthen the national social protection system so it is more adequate, inclusive and comprehensive.

National partners welcomed the CODI assessment results as a valuable basis for continuing efforts to strengthen Turkmenistan’s social protection system in line with national development priorities.