The funding commitment was presented at an event in the Uzbekistan Pavilion during the 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31). Participants reviewed the results of the fund's first phase and discussed ways to attract international partners to its next stage.
Established in 2018, the Multi-Partner Human Security Trust Fund for the Aral Sea Region brings together the Uzbek government, UN agencies and development partners to address the region's environmental, social and economic challenges.
The fund mobilized $16.2 million during its first phase. Nine joint programmes and one project implemented by an individual UN agency were financed through four funding rounds, with eight UN organizations involved in their implementation.
By the end of 2023, the projects had reached more than 293,000 direct beneficiaries across eight districts of Karakalpakstan.
Second phase to run until 2030
The fund's second phase will run until 2030 and is intended to move beyond individual pilot initiatives towards integrated programmes with measurable results and a broader reach.
Uzbekistan's $5 million contribution is expected to provide a foundation for attracting additional funding from international partners, developing blended financing mechanisms and bringing more participants into the initiative.
The next phase will prioritize climate resilience, improved water resource management, healthcare and sustainable livelihoods. Other areas of focus include environmental and vocational skills development, as well as attracting private investment.
Participants also discussed allowing organizations outside the UN system to take part in implementing projects, provided they meet the relevant legal and financial requirements.
Another priority is the development of an investment portfolio that brings together climate, environmental and social objectives for the Aral Sea region.
