UN Global Compact launches Central Asia Network to advance sustainable business

The UN Global Compact officially launched the Central Asia Network, marking a pivotal moment for responsible business in the region. This landmark initiative will connect more than 140 participant companies with the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, equipping companies with the tools and resources necessary to advance sustainable business practices and align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Central Asia network is a multi-country office that will serve Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. Until now, efforts in sustainability, corporate governance and SDG implementation have largely operated in silos across the five countries. 

Grounded in shared values, this multi-country office will support building trust, joint training, regional dialogue and cross-border business alliances. Global markets demand transparency, decarbonization and ethical labour practices, and the Global Compact Central Asia Network is set up to meet these demands, with champions in government, business and civil society ready to lead the change.

Now is the moment. Central Asia is currently undergoing rapid political, economic and generational transition. With over 60 per cent of the population under the age of 30, this youthful demographic is driving demand for a new economic model rooted in ethics, opportunity and environmental responsibility. The Network will serve as a vital bridge between global standards and the aspirations of local entrepreneurs, women-led enterprises and next-generation leaders.

“Central Asia sits at a strategic crossroads between Europe, Asia and the Middle East, and is entering a period of rapid economic and political transformation. By launching a Country Network here, we are anchoring responsible investment and sustainability into this dynamic corridor, and harnessing the region’s untapped private-sector potential to drive green growth, improve transparency and foster social cohesion.”
– Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact. 

The Central Asia Network will establish a cross-border platform that advances the modernization agenda of Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kazakhstan, by accelerating the green-economy transition, enhancing business transparency and promoting accountable foreign investment — ensuring private-sector initiatives deliver tangible impact. 

“At this pivotal moment, businesses in Central Asia must seize the first-mover advantage to set their own sustainability agenda. The UN Global Compact will convene government, business and civil society across Central Asia to build trust, foster cross-border partnerships and unlock billions in investment for the SDGs — ensuring that economic growth goes hand-in-hand with social inclusion and environmental resilience.” 
– Dinara Seijaparova,  Executive Director of the UN Global Compact Central Asia Network

The launch of the Central Asia Country Network reflects the commitment of the UN Global Compact to regional empowerment and localized implementation of global agendas. It marks a step forward, working across borders and industries to mobilize businesses, governments and communities to turn shared values into impact.