Uzbekistan and UNFPA Promote New Approaches to Engaging Men in Preventing Domestic Violence

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), in collaboration with the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan and with financial support from the Government of the United Kingdom, has launched a series of activities under the global MenEngage campaign. The initiative aims to increase the participation of men and boys in promoting gender equality and preventing violence against women and girls.

The three-day training, held ahead of the international “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign, continues UNFPA’s ongoing initiatives in Uzbekistan. The program brings together specialists from various regions of the country and Central Asia, creating a platform for experience exchange, strengthening local capacity, and implementing practical approaches—from responsible fatherhood to community engagement.

“This training is part of UNFPA’s sustained efforts to involve men and boys in achieving gender equality,” said Matlyuba Umurzakova, Deputy Representative of UNFPA in Uzbekistan. “By developing skills, sharing experiences, and working closely with national and local structures, we are turning dialogue into real actions aimed at fostering a culture of respect, care, and equality.”

The initiative is actively supported by the Association of Mahallas of Uzbekistan, the national movement Yuksalish, the Agency for Youth Affairs, and several civil society organizations. This collaboration demonstrates a shared national commitment to promoting gender equality and brings these processes closer to communities by engaging youth and enhancing violence prevention efforts.

Over 30 specialists are participating in the training, enhancing their knowledge and practical skills in involving men and boys in equality initiatives. The program covers discussions on gender norms, positive models of masculinity, emotional literacy, psycho-emotional well-being, and the influence of online spaces on gender role perceptions, as well as strategies to counter harmful content.

Participants are also developing concrete practical actions in support of the upcoming “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign.

The primary goal of the training is to create a network of trained facilitators capable of effectively engaging men and boys as allies of equality and agents of positive change in their communities.

Engaging men and boys is recognized as one of the most effective tools for reducing violence, strengthening respectful relationships, and improving family well-being. UNFPA’s country program in Uzbekistan prioritizes the prevention of gender-based violence and the transformation of social norms underlying it.

The strong interest of specialists in topics such as positive masculinity and responsible fatherhood highlights the importance of flexible, localized approaches applicable in mahallas, youth centers, and schools. This training addresses that need, translating knowledge into concrete actions, strengthening facilitators’ capacity to support survivors, and promoting everyday behaviors that make homes and communities safer.

Drawing on UNFPA’s experience with the MenEngage movement in Uzbekistan and the region, the training supports the expansion of sustainable, locally managed programs through national partnerships and joint methodologies.

The project is implemented with financial support from the UK Government’s International Development Program. The views expressed in the project do not necessarily reflect the official position of the UK Government.