Developing and maintaining a multi-stakeholder platform within a challenging operating environment in Tajikistan

The structure and operation of a well-functioning MSP can vary from country to country, but the common denominator is that it should be a platform that unites stakeholders in working towards achieving nutrition gains. Nutrition is a multifaceted issue that requires collective efforts from various stakeholders, including Governments, United Nations partners, donors, civil society and businesses. The MSP is an avenue for countries to bring together partners to discuss nutrition, breaking the silos that often exist within ministries and development partners with unique mandates and multiple activities.

In Tajikistan, the MSP is used to exchange ideas, develop synergies and find solutions. It also acts as a platform for tracking progress and monitoring the implementation of the Multisectoral Nutrition Action Plan and other nutrition interventions. The MSP structure in Tajikistan is unique, adapted according to the resources available, including a technical secondment by the German Agency for International Cooperation.

The MSP in Tajikistan operates within a challenging environment, particularly due to multiple competing priorities at the Government’s end due to which nutrition is not a top priority. Despite this, the country has managed to introduce and implement the MSP and ensure its functionality.