EU and UN Launch Women’s Economic Empowerment Program

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The European Union, together with UNFPA, UN Women, and UNICEF, has announced the launch of a new joint initiative titled “Expanding Women’s Economic Opportunities in Uzbekistan.”

The program is being implemented in partnership with the government of Uzbekistan and is designed for the 2026–2028 period. It aims to develop human capital, expand women’s access to education, employment, and entrepreneurship, and strengthen reproductive health systems and demographic resilience.

The initiative aligns with the priorities of the “Uzbekistan–2030” Strategy and is focused on promoting gender equality, inclusive economic growth, and higher employment rates.

Deputy Prime Minister and Chairperson of the Committee on Family and Women Affairs Zulaykho Makhkamova stated that the government continues to consistently advance policies aimed at expanding women’s opportunities and strengthening their role in socio-economic development.

EU Ambassador to Uzbekistan Toivo Klaar emphasized that expanding women’s economic rights is a key driver of sustainable development and economic growth.

UNFPA Resident Representative in Uzbekistan Nigina Abaszada highlighted the link between women’s economic opportunities and access to healthcare and informed choice in reproductive matters.

UNICEF Representative Regina Castillo underlined the importance of creating conditions for skills development and expanding opportunities for girls and women.

Head of the UN Women Liaison Office for Central Asia Jeren Güven Gures stressed the need to ensure full participation of women in the economy, particularly focusing on youth and vulnerable groups.

The program adopts a comprehensive approach aimed at removing structural barriers and addressing gender inequality. Key focus areas include skills development, support for women’s entrepreneurship, expanded access to decent work, and transformation of social norms.

Special emphasis will be placed on improving access to reproductive health services and family planning, as well as promoting family-friendly policies and inclusive workplaces.

Expected outcomes of the program include support for 1,000 families in developing gender-equal practices and counseling for 3,000 couples; skills development and educational access for 700 girls, including those with disabilities; training for 5,000 women in professional and digital skills alongside support for entrepreneurship initiatives; introduction of gender-sensitive approaches in 70 private companies; increased awareness of gender equality among 5,000 women, 10,000 students, and 400 professionals; engagement of media representatives, religious leaders, and civil society in promoting gender equality; and access to reproductive health information and services for 1.5 million people.

The total budget of the program is 5,116,890.06 euro. It will cover all regions of Uzbekistan and be implemented under the leadership of UNFPA in cooperation with international partners.

The initiative is expected to strengthen women’s participation in the economy, increase employment opportunities, and contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable development model for the country.