On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the UN system in Turkmenistan—represented by Mr. Dmitriy Shlapachenko, the UN Resident Coordinator, Dr. Egor Zaitsev, WHO Representative and Mr. Kemal Goshliyev, Head of UNFPA Office came together for a special Cooking Master Class.
Designed not only as a celebration of women, but the master class also aimed to promote meaningful dialogue on gender equality, shared responsibility, and the everyday actions needed to create fairer and more inclusive homes and societies. It also advanced the principles of SDG 5: Gender Equality, SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, and SDG 2: Zero Hunger, highlighting how gender roles connect closely with family health and nutrition.
A Celebration with Purpose
From its outset, the event was framed as a space for more than cooking. Participants gathered to reflect on women’s rights, challenge persistent stereotypes, and highlight the importance of men’s involvement in domestic responsibilities. The decision to place men at the center of the cooking process was intentional—demonstrating that preparing meals is not a gender-specific favour, but a shared responsibility.
Another reflection highlighted that achieving gender equality requires active participation from everyone, especially men who must commit to being allies and partners in everyday life.
It was also underscored the connection between equality at home and family health, noting that when caregiving and household tasks are shared more fairly, families benefit from stronger wellbeing and resilience.
Food as a Gateway to Dialogue
Cooking was selected deliberately for its powerful symbolism. In many households, cooking is still viewed as a “women’s task,” reflecting broader inequalities in unpaid domestic labour. By encouraging men to take the lead, the master class created an opportunity for participants to question these norms openly.
During the preparation of meals, participants discussed why caregiving—such as ensuring nutritious meals or looking after children’s wellbeing—often defaults to women, and how increasing men’s engagement can significantly strengthen family health.
Colleagues from WHO and UNFPA also shared insights on how social expectations shape family health outcomes.
A Step Forward for Equality
Through open dialogue, shared cooking, and genuine reflection, the 8 March Cooking Master Class transformed a familiar daily activity into a platform for addressing deeply rooted social norms. Bringing together colleagues from across UN agencies, the event highlighted the vital role men play in advancing gender equality and fostering healthier, more supportive families.
As the UN in Turkmenistan continues its advocacy throughout the year, activities like this highlight a simple truth: gender equality starts with shared responsibility, and every individual—women, men, girls, and boys—has a role to play. ///UN Turkmenistan