The Fourth Multistakeholder Regional Meeting of the Global Agenda for Sustainable Livestock (GASL) concluded in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, bringing together livestock sector leaders and experts from Central Asia, as well as participants from Azerbaijan and Türkiye. Organized jointly by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and GASL, the three-day event focused on advancing sustainable livestock systems through dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing.
During the meeting, participants explored the future of sustainable livestock policies in the region. National presentations highlighted how countries are strengthening multistakeholder collaboration to develop more inclusive and effective livestock strategies. Experts also reflected on developments from the 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference, considering how global climate priorities will shape the livestock sector in Central Asia. The upcoming International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists was also a focal point, emphasizing the importance of healthy rangelands, pastoralist livelihoods, and coordinated regional action.
The discussions further addressed opportunities for increased investment in sustainable livestock systems, including the use of science-based assessment tools such as those from the Livestock Environmental Assessment Partnership. FAO and international partners presented investment mechanisms and ongoing initiatives supported by the Green Climate Fund and Global Environment Facility, alongside innovative regional approaches that integrate sustainability, climate resilience, and livelihood support.
FAO Representative a.i. in Tajikistan, Aghasi Harutyunyan, highlighted the critical role of strategic collaboration and investment in safeguarding rangelands, empowering pastoralist communities, and building resilience. Participants from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan demonstrated a strong regional commitment to sustainable livestock development, recognizing its importance for food security, climate resilience, and viable rural livelihoods.
As part of the programme, delegates visited the Republican Center of Livestock Biotechnology and a local dairy farm to observe practical examples of livestock management, pasture restoration, and smallholder innovation. These field visits illustrated how modern approaches and traditional knowledge can be combined to support sustainable livestock production in Tajikistan.
GASL Chair Hsin Huang emphasized the value of multistakeholder dialogue in addressing complex challenges in the livestock sector and fostering inclusive, effective solutions. The meeting concluded with participating countries renewing their commitment to evidence-based policymaking, enhanced regional cooperation, and increased investment in resilient livestock systems aligned with global sustainability goals. Insights and recommendations from the discussions will guide future regional initiatives and promote coordinated action across Central Asia.
