Historic and Traditional Strands Woven into Tapestry's Design
Welcome to the vibrant heart of Central Asia - Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Beyond shared borders, these countries have a rich history of collaboration that transcends centuries, encompassing political, economic, and cultural ties. But what truly binds these nations is the tradition of giving back, a spirit that's not a modern concept but a passed-down legacy.
Charity Rooted in History
Mutual assistance has long been a cornerstone of community life in Central Asia. Traditional practices such as Asar, Ashar, Hashar, and Yowar encouraged individuals of all ages to work together for common goals, making tasks that would be difficult for a single family or person financially or logistically feasible.
Volunteering Today
In recent times, volunteering and charity in Central Asia continue to flourish. While some opt to volunteer during crises and work independently, organizations and nonprofits remain essential, supporting local communities and working towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Giving a fresh boost to this tradition is Kazakhstan, where a growing culture of volunteerism is taking root. The number of registered volunteers in the country shot up from 117,000 in 2021 to over 217,000 by 2023, marking a significant shift towards civic activism for a sustainable future.
Making a Difference One Stitch at a Time
One such example is Club 28 Loops, a movement founded by a group of knitters in 2012. With over 3,700 volunteers in 150 locations across Kazakhstan and other countries, they create essential items such as hats, vests, socks, blankets, and toys, donated to neonatal centers. Their goal is to alleviate the challenges faced by premature babies, focusing on SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
Clearing Hearts and Spaces
Cleanup Hour, a volunteer activity organized by Eco Demi, invites people to clean public spaces for just one hour every Saturday. With over 13,000 followers on Instagram and numerous contributors in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, their efforts aim to promote environmental care and personal well-being, contributing to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 13 (Climate Change).
Sowing Goodness and Hope
Established over a decade ago, Muzaffar's mission in Tajikistan is to reduce poverty by promoting kindness, compassion, and support. One of their flagship events, 'Sow Goodness' (Neki Bikor), an annual exhibition of flowers and plants, brings together over 700 volunteers and supports education, healthcare, and sustainable city initiatives. Through their activities, Muzaffar aligns with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Raising Future Leaders
Keik Okara, based in Turkmenistan, focuses on developing leadership skills among young people (ages 18-35) and empowering them to contribute to social changes in the country. Through their outreach, they promote SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality).
Lending a Hand to the Vulnerable
Ezgu Amal, the first of its kind in Uzbekistan, provides support to children battling cancer, people from low-income households, children living in orphanages, and more. Their vital contributions to society help achieve SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 5 (Gender equality), SDG 10 (Reduced inequalities), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
The Year of Volunteers 2026
Kazakhstan's commitment to volunteerism extends beyond its borders, with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev declaring the International Year of Volunteers during the 75th UN General Assembly in 2020. Three years later, this promise was made official by the UN General Assembly, designating 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development. This global celebration honors and recognizes volunteers worldwide, emphasizing their crucial role in creating a better future for all. Join the movement!
[1] https://unv.org/stories/un-volunteers-kazakhstan[2] https://unv.org/stories/zhuyupova-un-volunteer-helmets-motorcyclists-turkey[3] https://www.una.org/content/publication/kn-ne_14122020.pdf[4] https://en.tengrinews.kz/politics/4295653[5] https://mfa.gov.kz/ru/actualnoe/2021/mar/58449-a-treatise-on-the-science-of-believing-in-the-central-asian-culture-of-giving-back.html
In Kazakhstan, the increasing culture of volunteerism is driven by a growing number of registered volunteers, reaching over 217,000 by 2023, impacting the sustainable development of the nation's lifestyle and community.
Meanwhile, home-and-garden initiatives such as Club 28 Loops and Sow Goodness are making a difference, constructively channeling the tradition of mutual assistance in Central Asia towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals, including good health and well-being, and partnerships for the goals.
