Abstract

This article is devoted to analyzing the role of the spiritual and ecological heritage of Nowruz in promoting green diplomacy in Tajikistan. Nowruz, as one of the oldest celebrations in human history, rooted in the millennial civilization of the Persian and Tajik peoples, embodies not only a cultural phenomenon but also a system of values that reflects a harmonious and responsible relationship between humanity and nature.

The article, using qualitative analysis methods, including discourse analysis, a review of scientific sources, political documents, and official speeches, as well as a study of the cultural experiences of the Tajik people related to Nowruz, examines the spiritual and ecological aspects of this celebration. At the same time, the Nowruz traditions of the mountainous people and the forms of transmission of ecological knowledge from generation to generation are used as important sources of analysis.

The article argues that Tajikistan, relying on the spiritual and ecological values of Nowruz, develops a unique form of green diplomacy, leveraging culture as a tool of soft power and cultural diplomacy to promote environmental sustainability, foster social cohesion, and enhance regional and international cooperation. Unlike traditional models of diplomacy, which rely mainly on political and economic interests, this approach uses intangible cultural heritage as a key element in shaping the country’s international image and as an effective mechanism for environmental governance

The results of the study show that the values embodied in Nowruz, such as respect for nature, environmental purification, social cohesion, and rational resource management, can strengthen the solid foundation of Tajikistan’s environmental policy and international diplomacy. These values strengthen both national policies and regional cooperation within Central Asia and beyond.

From an academic perspective, the article contributes to the development of contemporary debates on the relationship between intangible cultural heritage, ecology, and diplomacy, demonstrating how folk and historical traditions can serve as a source of policy innovation for addressing global challenges, including climate change and sustainable development.