Central Asia remains one of the youngest regions in Eurasia, with more than half of its population under the age of 30. A new report, Generation-2050, prepared with UNICEF’s support, highlights that unlocking this demographic potential will require substantial investment in human capital, Economist.kg reports.
The region’s population is growing rapidly — from 56 million in 2000 to 84 million in 2025 (Uzbekistan – 39 million, Kazakhstan – 21 million, Tajikistan – 11 million, Kyrgyzstan – 7 million, Turkmenistan – 6 million), and it is expected to approach 112 million by mid-century. This young demographic structure offers an opportunity for accelerated economic growth, but the next 10–15 years will be decisive: after 2040, the burden on the working-age population will begin to increase.
The report notes that limited access to quality education, healthcare, and social services is reducing the future potential of young people. Priorities include developing education systems, strengthening healthcare, expanding employment and training programs, and supporting families.
Migration and rapid urbanization also shape the situation. Millions of people from the region work abroad, while cities are expanding faster than their infrastructure can adapt. Climate risks — droughts, water scarcity, melting glaciers, and extreme heat — further increase pressure on social systems.
Experts emphasize that human capital is the region’s key resource. With effective policies, the young population can become the foundation of Central Asia’s sustainable development by 2050.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
November 28, 2025