Climate Change and Health Equity in Tajikistan

University of Central Asia, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Republic of Tajikistan, convened a half-day conference in Dushanbe to examine the intersection of climate change and health equity in Tajikistan. The event brought together policymakers, researchers, and representatives of national and international organizations to explore evidence-based approaches to strengthening health system resilience in the face of climate change.

The conference was structured around two main sessions. The first featured a high-level policy discussion focused on healthcare, water and climate change, and the development of sign language as a tool for promoting inclusive health policies. Participants included representatives from the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources, the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan, UNESCO, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), and the Centre for Development of Sign Language and Education of the Deaf.

The second session, a technical panel, addressed key health trends in Tajikistan, the impacts of climate change on flora and fauna and their implications for human health, disaster risk reduction and climate interventions, and glaciation processes across the country. Presentations were delivered by experts from the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the National Academy of Sciences, the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), and UCA.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Davlatzoda Said Haidar, Head of the Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Safety, Emergencies, and Emergency Medical Aid at the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, underscored the particular vulnerability of the health sector to climate-related risks. Mr. Mirzorahimzoda Akobir, Vice President of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Tajikistan, highlighted the importance of research in generating evidence to inform policy and practice.

Professor Christopher J. Gerry, Rector of UCA, welcomed participants and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to working closely with government institutions, academia, and non-governmental organizations to advance research that supports national development priorities and policy implementation.

Discussions involving representatives from line ministries, the National Academy of Sciences, civil society organizations, and international partners - including UNESCO, GIZ, and FCDO - focused on how sector-specific strategies address the climate–health nexus, with particular attention to vulnerable populations.
Participants also explored the role of academic institutions in supporting ministries through research, data, and technical expertise. Several recommendations emerged on strengthening collaboration, with strong interest expressed in expanding partnerships with UCA.

UCA reaffirmed its commitment to continued collaboration with national and international partners to support climate change and health initiatives, strengthen institutional capacities, and contribute to sustainable development in Tajikistan.