Press Release

Policy Dialogue Strengthens Tajikistan’s Multisectoral Action to Prevent Noncommunicable Diseases through Healthier Food Systems

16 October 2025

The Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Tajikistan, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe through the Special Initiative on NCDs and Innovation (SNI) is holding a two-day Policy Dialogue on Preventing noncommunicable diseases (NDCs) through Food Systems and Multisectoral Action in Dushanbe from 15–16 October 2025.

The event is dedicated at advancing the agenda on preventing NCDs such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases remain the leading cause of death and disability in Tajikistan and across the WHO European Region. These diseases are largely driven by preventable behavioural risk factors — tobacco use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and harmful use of alcohol — all of which can be addressed through stronger policies and healthier environments.

The event brings together representatives from the Government of Tajikistan, international partners, civil society, academia, and UN agencies to strengthen cross-sectoral cooperation for healthier food systems and improved nutrition. Participants include experts from the health, agriculture, finance, education, and urban development sectors — all of which play a crucial role in shaping the country’s health outcomes.

“Preventing noncommunicable diseases requires action far beyond the health sector. This dialogue is an important step towards building stronger food policies and promoting healthier lifestyles across Tajikistan", noted Mr. Amirzoda Abdulkholik Amir, Deputy Minister of Health and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Tajikistan.

A Multisectoral Platform for Evidence and Action

The dialogue is held under the framework of the Joint Programme “Transforming Food Systems for Better Nutrition,” contributing to the WHO European Programme of Work and SDG target 3.4 — to reduce premature mortality from NCDs by one third by 2030.

Over two days, participants are discussing evidence-based interventions known as WHO “Best Buys”, including:

Reducing salt intake in the population;
Eliminating industrial trans fats from food products;
Introducing taxation on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs);
Restricting the marketing of unhealthy foods to children;
Promoting healthy school meals and child nutrition.

Sessions also explore the use of Behavioural and Cultural Insights (BCI) to design and implement policies that resonate with local contexts and promote lasting behaviour change.

Expected outcomes include an increased understanding of how food system reforms can reduce NCD burden, and how ministries and partners can collaborate to translate global recommendations into concrete national actions.

The outcomes of this policy dialogue will inform Tajikistan’s ongoing efforts to improve public health, strengthen food system resilience, and promote healthier, longer lives for all.

The joint programme “Transforming food systems for better nutrition”, financed by the Joint SDG Fund, a United Nations mechanism designed to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is implemented by FAO, UNICEF, WHO and WFP in Tajikistan in partnership with the Committee for Food Security under the Government of Republic of Tajikistan.