Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a widespread and urgent issue worldwide, fueled by inequality, silence, and systemic underinvestment. Globally, nearly one in three women—approximately 736 million—have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, with little progress over the past decade. In Turkmenistan, 12% of women aged 18–59 report experiencing violence from a spouse or partner, highlighting the persistent risks faced by women. Despite these alarming figures, GBV is preventable through sustained action, institutional strengthening, and active community engagement.
Each year, the 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-Based Violence, observed from 25 November to 10 December, focuses attention on the growing issue of digital violence against women and girls. This year, UNDP joined the UNiTE initiative, emphasizing the importance of preventing online abuse, promoting safe digital spaces, and advancing gender equality. While technology and AI offer opportunities for development and SDG advancement, they also present risks: high percentages of women parliamentarians, journalists, and online users report facing threats, harassment, and sexual exploitation through digital platforms. Addressing these threats is crucial, as online abuse restricts women’s access to skills, jobs, and economic opportunities, which could otherwise significantly contribute to global wealth.
UNDP’s work in Turkmenistan focuses on three main streams: strengthening institutional responses, engaging youth through digital empowerment, and integrating GBV prevention into healthcare, alongside climate-related initiatives that empower women. Institutional efforts include the CHANGE Programme, which tackles harmful gender norms, promotes economic independence for women through apprenticeships and empowerment centers, and provides tailored digital and vocational training for GBV survivors. Legal reforms and improved access to justice, supported by digital platforms and resources, further enhance institutional capacities to prevent GBV.
Youth engagement is a central component, with initiatives like the Future of Work Academy and Future Skills Academy providing young people, particularly women, with digital literacy and vocational skills. These programs build resilience, career opportunities, and confidence, while educating participants on online safety and strategies to counter cyber-harassment. Workshops, discussions, and events organized under the 16 Days of Activism campaign have enabled Turkmen students to engage directly with issues of digital violence, fostering awareness and advocacy.
Healthcare integration addresses GBV in sensitive contexts such as TB care, where women face stigma and harassment. Trained psychologists and coordinators provide psychosocial support, creating safe spaces for patients and families, improving treatment adherence, and promoting emotional well-being. Linking GBV prevention to health services ensures a holistic approach to protection and support for women.
Climate action initiatives further empower women by promoting resilience in rural communities disproportionately affected by environmental degradation. UNDP Turkmenistan supports women-led, climate-resilient projects that strengthen economic independence, leadership skills, and decision-making capacity, thereby reducing vulnerability to GBV. Empowered women are better positioned to withstand social pressures, enhance community resilience, and advocate for their rights.
Ending GBV, both online and offline, requires multi-sectoral action that integrates justice, technology, and empowerment. UNDP’s commitment under the theme “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls” focuses on accountability, youth empowerment, digital literacy, and safe online spaces. By fostering inclusive and resilient communities, UNDP and partners aim to protect women and girls, advance gender equality, and ensure that digital transformation serves as a tool for opportunity rather than a vector for violence.
