Investing
in children's wellbeing

Dates

21–22 October 2026

Location
Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Venue
Silk Road Samarkand

Registration open · 100+ countries expected

600+Expected participants
100+Countries represented
2Days of summit & congress
Why this Summit matters

Children are a third of the world — and the future of every nation depends on their wellbeing.

The world's population is growing, and with it the uncertainty children inherit. Climate change, new technologies, conflict, economic pressure and migration are reshaping everyday life. These interlocking crises deepen inequality and erode trust — and children, least responsible for them, are hit hardest.

In this context, securing real opportunities for the next generation to thrive is a shared global responsibility. Yet in many countries the systems that support children remain fragmented and poorly coordinated.

A more integrated approach is needed — so that every child can survive, develop and reach their full potential. That is why Uzbekistan is inviting leading experts and policymakers to Samarkand to share a common vision for children's wellbeing.

The Summit will conclude with the adoption of the Samarkand Declaration on Investing in Children's Wellbeing.

Goals of the Summit

Turning political will into lasting, measurable progress for children.

01

Take stock of progress

Review advances and the gaps that remain in investing in children's wellbeing across countries.

02

Exchange what works

Share experience and practical solutions between nations, surfacing approaches ready to scale.

03

Strengthen protection

Highlight policy and financing that reinforce social protection, education and early childhood development.

04

Confront childhood cancer

Advance joint efforts on early diagnosis and quality treatment through the 2nd International Congress.

05

Deliver the WHO strategy

Support implementation of the 2026–2030 strategy for child and adolescent health and wellbeing.

06

Align on priorities

Agree priority actions to carry the Samarkand Declaration from commitment into implementation.

Conveners & partners

Hosted by Uzbekistan, supported by a global advisory committee.

Lead organizers

  • National Agency for Social Protection under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan
  • Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan
  • Ministry of Preschool and School Education of the Republic of Uzbekistan
  • “Zamin” International Public Foundation

Advisory committee

  • UN SRSG on Violence Against Children
  • UNICEF — United Nations Children's Fund
  • WHO — World Health Organization
  • The World Bank
Road to Samarkand

The journey to October 2026.

  1. June

    Invitations sent; key partners and their roles confirmed.

  2. July

    Communications campaign launches; preliminary confirmations received.

  3. August

    Briefings for speakers and moderators; session materials prepared.

  4. September

    Final documents completed; printed materials produced.

  5. October

    Delegations arrive; the Summit and Congress open in Samarkand.

We look forward to your ideas for a better future for our children — in Samarkand.