On 14–15 October 2026, a seminar was held at the headquarters of the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan (NRCST) as part of the project “Strengthening the National Red Crescent Society’s Emergency Preparedness and Humanitarian Capacity”. The seminar was led by the Central Asia representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). It was attended by staff from the National Society’s Ahal, Balkan, Dashoguz, Lebap and Mary regional branches, as well as specialists from the headquarters.

On the first day, participants discussed coordination mechanisms in refugee emergencies, shelter and settlement options, cash assistance, humanitarian procurement, and vulnerability and risk assessment. The second day focused on warehouse management, the risk matrix and risk management strategies, as well as logistics and transport. An emergency response specialist from the Red Crescent Society of Kyrgyzstan also shared her experience with participants online.

The seminar concluded with a practical session at the warehouse of the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan, where participants gained hands-on experience in receiving and dispatching goods, keeping inventory records and preparing documentation.

The two-day training helped staff gain a deeper understanding of the specifics of managing large refugee flows in emergencies caused by conflicts, crises and natural disasters, where advance preparedness is of critical importance.