UNICEF and the Project Office for Central Asia on Climate Change and Green Energy Unite Efforts to Protect Children Amid Climate Change

The Project Office and UNICEF have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding aimed at developing a sustainable, coordinated, and cross-sectoral approach to addressing climate challenges — with a particular focus on safeguarding the health and well-being of children and youth.

This document establishes a foundation for structured cooperation between UNICEF and the Project Office, including engagement with government partners, with the goal of integrating the interests of future generations into climate policy and advancing sustainable solutions in key sectors — from education and healthcare to social protection and environmental management.

The primary objective of the Memorandum is to support the preparation and hosting of the Regional Climate Summit 2026, along with the development of sustainable initiatives that have long-term significance and remain relevant beyond the Summit’s conclusion.

How can implementation of the Memorandum’s provisions strengthen the resilience of the social sector at the national policy level?

Climate change presents serious challenges to sustainable development, social stability, and public health in Central Asia. Children are particularly vulnerable to its impacts. In this context, national governments must shape policies oriented toward long-term resilience and protection of the most vulnerable groups — and it is essential to actively engage children and youth in these processes.

The Memorandum identifies four priority areas for cooperation with government institutions:

• Climate resilience of child-centered sectors
• Active participation of youth in climate decision-making
• Data monitoring and analytics
• Strengthening child rights-based climate policy
• Looking ahead: Regional Climate Summit 2026

Special attention will be given to the joint preparation of the Regional Climate Summit, to be held in 2026 in Astana. AAs part of the agreement, UNICEF has expressed its readiness to support the engagement of young people by providing volunteers for the preparation and organization of the RCS-2026. The participation of youth volunteers from Central Asian countries is expected to enhance the inclusiveness of the Summit, bring additional energy to its public agenda, and serve as a key element in advancing the youth climate agenda across the region.

The Memorandum not only formalizes cooperation between UNICEF and the climate foundation, but also opens new opportunities for the countries of the region to strengthen the climate resilience of their social systems and to integrate the interests of children and youth into national strategies.