UNDP and the Ministry of Emergency Situations Hold Dialogue on Gender Inclusivity in Emergency Systems to Enhance Climate Resilience in the Fergana Valley
November 5, 2024
Osh, November 4, 2024 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic and the European Union (EU), held a comprehensive dialogue in Osh aimed at integrating a gender-inclusive approach within early warning and risk reduction systems to bolster climate resilience and adaptation in the region. This event is part of UNDP’s “Climate Change and Resilience in Central Asia” project, funded by the EU, and underscores a commitment to creating inclusive and resilient communities in the region.
The dialogue brought together over 60 participants, including government officials, civil society representatives, women’s groups, youth, inclusive organizations, and pilot communities from various districts of the Fergana Valley. Discussions emphasized the importance of integrating a gender-inclusive approach to enhance climate resilience and emergency response, sharing practical examples and experience accumulated by the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic. Topics included practical experience from the Kyrgyz Ministry of Emergency Situations, the newly established early warning system on four pilot sites (Barpy, Jany-Nookat, Orozkul, and Maydan), examples from Batken region on preventing gender-based violence risks in emergency situations, and incorporating inclusivity into emergency response systems.
Special attention was given to developing recommendations for integrating gender-oriented measures into local climate resilience plans and early warning systems, ensuring communities are better prepared for climate risks. The event included presentations on simulation practices from Batken region aimed at mitigating gender-based violence risks during emergencies, highlighting the importance of protecting vulnerable groups. The dialogue also featured a demonstration of the early warning system in the project’s pilot communities.
Gulzhan Mahmudova, UNDP National Project Coordinator, remarked: “Integrating a gender-based approach into early warning and emergency management systems is not only a matter of equality but also a critical element in enhancing resilience to climate risks. Our joint efforts aim to protect the most vulnerable and strengthen communities’ preparedness for the impacts of climate change.”
Stefano Corrado, Project Manager, European Delegation to the Kyrgyz Republic, added: “Addressing the gender dimension in climate resilience strategies is crucial to unlocking the full potential of these policies, especially by involving young women who are instrumental in driving local, tailored solutions.”
UNDP will continue to support communities through inclusive climate solutions, promoting resilience that addresses the unique needs of all members of society.