Ashgabat, 26 May 2026 —From 25 to 26 May 2026, the Mission of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Turkmenistan organised a two-day training in Ashgabat aimed at preparing volunteers and staff in the field of Restoring Family Links (RFL). The training was intended for staff and volunteers of the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan (NRCST).

Representatives from all five velayats of Turkmenistan participated in the training, as well as staff from Ashgabat, ensuring balanced geographical representation of participants from across the country.

During the course, participants studied key aspects of restoring family links, including needs assessment methodology, data collection using standardised questionnaires, the use of digital technologies such as the Kobo Toolbox programme for working in digital format, as well as data protection and confidentiality. In addition, considerable attention was paid to developing rapid assessment skills, including the practice of conducting rapid assessments in emergency and disaster situations.

The training was delivered by experienced specialists — Margarita Silaeva, RFL Coordinator of the Red Crescent Society of Kazakhstan, and Anne Wallet, ICRC Regional Coordinator for Restoring Family Links. The training was based on interactive methods, including role plays, simulation of various situations, and practical exercises.

Upon completion of the training, participants acquired skills in conducting RFL interviews, completing questionnaires and processing RFL requests, and learned to identify priority needs based on assessment results.

This training served as a prime example of the joint work of the ICRC and the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan, aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness and developing people-centred humanitarian services.