First CICA Women’s Council Meeting Held in Baku 2026

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  On 14 April 2026, the inaugural meeting of the Women’s Council of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) was held in Baku, aimed at expanding women’s participation in decision-making processes and advancing the gender agenda across the region.

The event took place within the framework of the international conference “Strengthening the Voice of Women in the CICA Space for Sustainable Development” and brought together senior representatives of member states, international organizations, and the expert community.

The CICA Women’s Council has been established as an advisory platform to foster cooperation, exchange experience, and coordinate efforts among member countries in promoting gender equality and expanding the role of women in socio-political and economic life.

During the meeting, Deputy Director of the National Center of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights Dilnoza Muratova delivered a report presenting the country’s national experience in advancing women’s rights and opportunities. She emphasized the importance of consistent state policy aimed at developing women’s leadership and increasing their participation in decision-making processes.

Particular attention during the discussions was given to enhancing the role of women in ensuring sustainable economic growth, developing women’s entrepreneurship and innovation, increasing women’s participation in digital transformation, and strengthening their contribution to environmental sustainability and climate action.

Following the meeting, participants adopted a consultative document reflecting the agreed approaches of member states toward the further development of cooperation within the Council.

It was noted that the establishment of the CICA Women’s Council represents an important stage in the institutional development of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia and opens new opportunities for the systematic promotion of women’s rights and empowerment across the region.

Participants stressed that this format of cooperation will serve as an effective platform for dialogue, joint decision-making, and the implementation of practical initiatives aimed at strengthening the role of women as a key factor in sustainable development, peace, and security.