Gender Equality
Women's Leadership and Gender Equality: Results and Prospects Discussed
On June 19 of this year, the Customs Committee, in cooperation with the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), organized an open dialogue on "Ensuring Women's Leadership and Gender Equality: Results and Prospects."
Speakers at the event — Customs Committee Chairman A. Mavlonov, Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Youth, Women, Culture and Sports Affairs O. Kozikhonova, UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan A. Fudizi, UN Resident Coordinator S. Machl, and others — shared important views on ensuring gender equality in Uzbekistan, expanding women's participation in public administration, and further strengthening the principles of inclusive governance.
Customs Committee Chairman A. Mavlonov, noting that as women's participation in security and law enforcement grows, so does the system's effectiveness, transparency, and public confidence in the future, proposed establishing a republican council called "Military Women — In Ensuring Security," uniting women serving in Uzbekistan's law enforcement and paramilitary agencies.
This council is expected to serve as a platform for women to exchange experience, cooperate, and develop leadership skills.
The panel discussions on "Prospects for Women's Leadership in the Security Sector" were also lively. Senators, leading experts from international and local organizations, and women scholars emphasized the importance of consistently continuing reforms aimed at ensuring women's active participation in state and public life, realizing their leadership potential, and achieving gender equality.
N. Fakhriddinova, Executive Secretary of the Advisory Council on Ensuring Equal Rights and Opportunities for Women and Men under the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction of the Republic of Uzbekistan, also took part with her views and suggestions.
At the conclusion of the event, guests were shown demonstration performances by cynologists and service dogs of the National Cynology Center. Participants also became closely acquainted with the work of the Central Customs Laboratory, the Customs Clearance Center, and the Targeting and Risk Management Center.
Winners of the "New Uzbekistan Women's Olympiad" Awarded
The republican stage of the "New Uzbekistan Women's Olympiad," held under the slogan "Toward a Happy Life through Sport!", has concluded at the Olympic Village in Tashkent.
Organized on the initiative of the Committee on Family and Women's Affairs, the sporting event brought together active women from the Republic of Karakalpakstan, the regions, and Tashkent city, who competed in chess, checkers, table tennis, and athletics.
The final part of the Olympiad featured an awards ceremony for winners and prize-winners, attended by Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan — Chairwoman of the Committee on Family and Women's Affairs Zulaykho Makhkamova, Minister of Sports Adham Ikramov, Minister of Preschool and School Education Ezozkhon Karimova, representatives of partner ministries and organizations, women athletes, and members of the general public.
Participants who achieved high results in the competitions were awarded diplomas, medals, and commemorative gifts.
Overall team standings:
1st place — Team of the Republic of Karakalpakstan
2nd place — Team of Navoi region
3rd place — Team of Tashkent city
As noted, sport today is becoming not only a factor of a healthy lifestyle for women, but also an important force fostering self-confidence, determination, willpower, and active participation in public life. A physically healthy, spiritually mature, and strong-willed woman is the foundation of a healthy family, a well-rounded child, and a strong society.
The "New Uzbekistan Women's Olympiad" played a significant role in increasing women's sports activity, strengthening their health, expanding the mass sports movement in the regions, and fostering an atmosphere of healthy competition among women.
The Olympiad became a large-scale sporting celebration that inspired thousands of women toward a healthy life, physical activity, and new achievements.
III Central Asian Forum "WOMEN IN TOURISM – 2026" Held in Nukus
In order to ensure the implementation of Presidential Resolution PQ-248 and further strengthen international cooperation in tourism in the Central Asian region, the III Central Asian Forum "WOMEN IN TOURISM – 2026" was held in the city of Nukus on June 4–5.
The forum brings together women entrepreneurs working in tourism, international experts, delegations from Central Asian countries, and representatives of government bodies responsible for tourism development.
Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Rano Turdiboyeva took part in this prestigious event, sharing her views on ensuring employment, increasing women's economic activity, and creating new jobs through tourism.
The main goal of the forum is to support the potential of women entrepreneurs, establish new partnerships in tourism, expand regional experience-sharing, and contribute to sustainable economic development.
Mobile Reception and Meeting with Entrepreneurs in Namangan
Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Rano Turdiboyeva held a mobile reception in the "Taraqqiyot" industrial and service zone of Yangi Namangan district to review citizens' appeals.
Residents of Chortoq, Uychi, Davlatabad, Yangi Namangan districts and Namangan city took part.
During the reception, issues related to employment, wage recovery, and the allocation of preferential loans and credits were taken under control and resolved positively. Matters requiring additional time were forwarded to responsible officials.
The Deputy Minister also held an open dialogue with local entrepreneurs, paying special attention to creating new jobs and supporting entrepreneurship.
Mobile Reception Held in Surkhandarya
Advisor to the Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Ummatoy Yuldosheva held a mobile reception in the region's Bandikhon district to review citizens' appeals directly on-site.
During the reception, appeals from around 50 citizens were reviewed, and issues related to employment, wage recovery, and preferential loans and credits were taken under control and resolved positively. Such mobile receptions play an important role in resolving citizens' problems locally, improving their standard of living, and supporting entrepreneurial activity.
14 Businesswomen Awarded Grants
As part of the joint project "Creating Decent Jobs and Accelerating Social Protection for a Fair Transition to Formal Employment in Uzbekistan," implemented by the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction, UNDP, the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), and the International Labour Organization, another important initiative to support women has been carried out.
Technical assistance and small grants were provided to 14 authors of the most promising projects.
Earlier, training courses aimed at building the capacity of women working in the informal sector were organized in the cities of Karshi, Samarkand, and Bukhara.
As a result:
▫️69 women took part in the training;
▫️34 of them formalized their activities within a short period;
▫️business initiatives and project proposals were developed.
These initiatives contribute to the development of women's entrepreneurship, increasing their economic activity, and creating decent jobs.
Spiritual and Educational Event Held for "May 15 — International Day of Families"
An evening dedicated to this theme was held at the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction, attended by Union of Writers member and poet Nazira Assalom — wife of People's Poet of Uzbekistan Muhammad Yusuf — who shared heartfelt reflections on family values, loyalty, and spiritual unity.
During the event, the family of Abduvohid Sharopov, Head of the Ministry's Labor Protection Department and winner of the republican "Exemplary Family" competition, was solemnly awarded the "Exemplary Family" badge of honor. Speakers stressed the importance of preserving family values, strengthening a healthy atmosphere in society, and further building solidarity among staff.
#safeday_2026 — Occupational Safety: International Cooperation and New Approaches
At today's conference, organized by social partners in the field of labor — the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction, the Federation of Trade Unions, and the Confederation of Employers of Uzbekistan — the consistent reforms being implemented to prevent pressure and violence in the workplace were highlighted.
The conference was held at the Chinabad Plaza conference hall, belonging to partner organization the Federation of Trade Unions.
The event contributes to the wide adoption of innovative approaches in the field, greater attention to the human factor in the workplace, and establishing employee health and well-being as a priority direction.
Specialists and organizations that achieved high results in occupational safety were recognized during the conference.
By the end, proposals were developed for improving the occupational safety system, managing psychological risks, and expanding international cooperation.
Today's conference once again showed that psychosocial risks are not the concern of a single sector, but a matter affecting the stability of society as a whole.
From this standpoint, the shared conclusion for all of us is clear: creating a healthy environment in the workplace is not a choice but a necessity. Today we united around an important principle and exchanged experience. When a person feels respected, protected, and valued at work, that becomes the strongest foundation for society's development, — said Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Rano Turdiboyeva.
#safeday_2026 — A Cry Behind the Silence!
During the conference, a short film dedicated to Occupational Safety Week was screened. The film once again reminded viewers how important human health, safe working conditions, and an environment based on mutual respect truly are.
Watch! Think! And be sure to draw conclusions!
Meetings Held at the II Asian Women's Forum in Bukhara
Within the framework of the II Asian Women's Forum held in Bukhara, Senate Chairwoman Tanzila Norboyeva held meetings with Second Deputy Chairman of the Federal National Council of the UAE and President of the Women Parliamentarians Forum of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean Maryam Majid bint Taneyya, as well as with Deputy Chairwoman of the Shura Council of Saudi Arabia Hanan bint Abdulrahim Al-Ahmadi.
The dialogue emphasized the steady development of Uzbekistan's strategic partnership with the United Arab Emirates, and that open and trustworthy dialogue between heads of state is taking bilateral cooperation to a new level.
The meeting discussed reviving the activities of inter-parliamentary friendship groups, developing joint "roadmaps" to ensure the implementation of high-level agreements, and establishing regular dialogue.
The importance of expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital technologies, energy, education, and workforce training, as well as supporting joint initiatives to strengthen women's role in society, was also noted.
During the dialogue with Deputy Chairwoman of the Shura Council Hanan bint Abdulrahim Al-Ahmadi, the rapid development of trade, economic, investment, and cultural-humanitarian ties was noted, including major projects being implemented in the energy sector with the participation of a number of companies.
At the same time, it was specifically noted that the Imam Bukhari complex, rebuilt on the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, is one of the major spiritual and educational centers of Islamic civilization, and warm congratulations were extended on the inclusion of the Islamic Civilization Center in the Guinness Book of Records.
The parties noted the importance of participation by members of the UAE and Saudi Arabian parliaments in the 12th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians, to be held in Samarkand in September of this year.
Gender Equality and International Labor Conventions
A tripartite seminar on freedom of association was held within the framework of ILO conventions. At the seminar of the International Labour Organization, government bodies, trade unions, employers, and ILO experts discussed issues of freedom of association and collective bargaining under Conventions No. 87 and No. 98. International standards, Committee recommendations, national legislative reforms, and new initiatives were reviewed.
Gender equality plays an important role in modern labor relations. In this regard, international conventions adopted by the International Labour Organization serve to ensure equal rights and opportunities for women and men.
The Forced Labour Convention (1930) and the Abolition of Forced Labour Convention (1957), adopted in the early stages, are aimed at abolishing forced labor and do not directly address gender issues. However, these documents create a general foundation for gender equality by protecting all people from forced labor.
Conventions adopted in later years are specifically aimed at ensuring gender equality. In particular, the Equal Remuneration Convention (1951) establishes the principle of equal pay for work of equal value. This is important in eliminating pay gaps between women and men.
Additionally, the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention (1958) prohibits gender-based discrimination in employment and guarantees equal opportunities for all.
The issue of balancing family and work is reflected in the Workers with Family Responsibilities Convention (1981), which encourages equal participation of men and women in fulfilling family duties.
Women's rights during maternity are protected by the Maternity Protection Convention (2000), which provides guarantees such as maternity leave, job retention, and medical care.
Ensuring a safe workplace environment is enshrined in the Violence and Harassment Convention (2019), aimed at preventing violence and sexual harassment.
In summary, these conventions serve as an important legal foundation for ensuring gender equality. They are aimed not only at protecting women, but also at creating equal rights, fair working conditions, and a safe work environment for all employees.
Seminar Held on Protecting the Rights of Women and Children
To widely convey to the public the essence of Presidential Decree No. PF-33 of March 3, 2026, "On Additional Organizational and Legal Measures to Strengthen the Protection of the Rights of Women and Children and Prevent Cases of Pressure and Violence against Them," a practical seminar was organized at the ministry's central office.
The event was attended by heads and staff of the ministry's central office, territorial departments, and subordinate organizations.
R. Turdiboyeva, Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction and Chairwoman of the Advisory Council on Ensuring Equal Rights and Opportunities for Women and Men under the Ministry, spoke about the essence of Presidential Decree No. PF-33, noting that the Decree opens an entirely new stage in ensuring human rights in our country, particularly in protecting women and children from any form of pressure and violence.
It was noted that the Decree provides for building a zero-tolerance environment toward violence against women and children in society, coordinating the activities of government bodies and organizations, strengthening preventive work, and introducing effective institutional mechanisms in this field. The seminar comprehensively discussed the priority tasks set out in the Decree, including preventing early marriage, consciously preparing young people for family life, and improving the system for combating pressure and violence against women and children. Participants were also informed of new developments regarding the regulation of marriage age, promoting prenuptial agreements, state support for young families, and expanding educational opportunities for pregnant students and young mothers. Special attention was given to key areas such as preventing pressure and violence, strengthening mechanisms to protect victims, and establishing "SOS" call systems, special electronic platforms, and inter-agency cooperation.
In addition, discussions covered strengthening accountability for offenses, including ensuring inevitable punishment for crimes against minors, and introducing specially trained investigators and judges. At the conclusion of the seminar, participants developed proposals and recommendations aimed at effectively ensuring the implementation of the Decree, building a societal environment of zero tolerance toward violence, and reliably protecting the rights of women and children.
First Deputy Minister Marat Jurayev Meets Head of UNFPA Representation
First Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Marat Jurayev met with Nigina Abaszada, Head of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Representation in Uzbekistan.
The meeting discussed the interconnected aspects of employment, poverty reduction, gender equality, and youth issues.
A cooperation roadmap for 2026–2027 was also signed.
PF-33 Seminar at the Andijan Regional Governor's Office
A seminar dedicated to effectively organizing outreach work under Decree PF-33 was held today at the Andijan regional governor's office.
The event was attended by members of the regional outreach group. The seminar was led by Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction and outreach group leader Turdiboyeva Rano Eshonovna, Deputy Head of the Interior Ministry's Crime Prevention Service Giyasova Nilufar Shasaitovna, and Deputy Khokim of Andijan region and Head of the Family and Women's Affairs Department Yunusova Nigora Yusupjonovna.
The seminar discussed the essence of Decree PF-33 and issues related to further strengthening outreach efforts aimed at reducing poverty among the population, ensuring employment, supporting women, and preventing offenses. Specific tasks were also set for the systematic organization of outreach group activities and achieving practical results locally.
Seminar at Andijan State Medical Institute
An open-dialogue-format seminar for students was organized today at Andijan State Medical Institute under Decree PF-33.
The event was led by Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction and outreach group leader Turdiboyeva Rano Eshonovna, Deputy Head of the Interior Ministry's Crime Prevention Service Giyasova Nilufar Shasaitovna, and Deputy Khokim of Andijan region and Head of the Family and Women's Affairs Department Yunusova Nigora Yusupjonovna.
The dialogue widely covered the essence of Decree PF-33, ensuring youth employment, career guidance, preventing offenses, and supporting women. Students actively participated with their questions and listened with great interest to the views and recommendations of the officials.
The meeting was held in a sincere and open atmosphere, helping to increase social activity among young people and strengthen their confidence in the future.
Updated Ranking: TOP-40 Women in Leadership
This year, the "Yuksalish" movement updated its annual ranking of women leaders working in public and social administration. In compiling this year's TOP-40 list, experts analyzed the work of more than 100 candidates. The ranking was based on criteria such as management results, participation in reforms, sectoral influence, and public trust.
Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Turdiboyeva Rano Eshovna has also been included in this TOP-40 ranking of women in leadership.
A Woman's Worth Is Life's Worth
On the occasion of March 8 — International Women's Day — men of the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction sincerely congratulated their women colleagues.
During the event, warm wishes were expressed, and the role, unique grace, and warmth of our dear women in society were highlighted.
Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Turdiboyeva Rano Eshovna was awarded the "Esteemed Woman" badge of honor.
A New Opportunity in Human Resources! Gender Equality Practices in Staff Selection!
On the initiative of the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction, a training program for HR trainers aimed at achieving gender equality has been launched!
The program is based on international standards and includes Training of Trainers and CIPD Level 3 qualification programs for HR specialists. The project is being implemented in cooperation with PwC Academy.
The main goal is to strengthen the knowledge and skills of HR specialists based on gender equality principles, introduce modern management approaches into practice, and build a future corps of HR trainers. Women and men who pass the multi-stage selection process will contribute to developing the HR field in our country, shaping a modern management culture, and strengthening human capital.
"Mechanisms for Ensuring Gender Equality in the Management System: Principles of Gender Auditing"
On January 27, 2026, a training seminar on "Mechanisms for Ensuring Gender Equality in the Management System: Principles of Gender Auditing" was held in Tashkent, in cooperation between the Committee on Family and Women's Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Resident Mission in Uzbekistan.
The event was dedicated to ensuring gender equality in public administration, introducing gender audit (FITA) principles, and developing effective management decisions based on the results of such audits.
Kanokpan Lao-Araya, Director of the ADB Resident Mission in Uzbekistan, spoke at the event, emphasizing the priority of ensuring gender equality in public administration and the importance of developing international cooperation and strengthening national capacity in this area.
Sessions during the seminar were organized in an interactive format, with participants divided into small groups for practical discussions. During group work, attendees answered questions posed by experts, exchanged views on practical applications of gender auditing, and developed proposals to address existing problems.
The seminar program comprehensively covered the concept and basic principles of gender auditing, its evaluation directions and methodology, and planning follow-up measures based on audit results. Information was also provided on the stages of conducting gender audits in government organizations and the tasks facing ministries and agencies in improving Uzbekistan's standing in gender rankings and indices.
At the end of the event, participants took exit tests to reinforce their knowledge and received certificates. This training seminar is significant in that it is aimed at improving mechanisms that support gender equality in public administration and enhancing the professional capacity of responsible staff.
N. Fakhriddinova, Chief Legal Counsel of the Ministry's Legal Affairs Department, took part in the seminar and completed the training course "Mechanisms for Ensuring Gender Equality in the Management System: Principles of Gender Auditing," receiving an internationally recognized gender audit certificate.
President's Cup Final: Ministry of Employment Women's Team Recognized in "Best Dynamics" Category
The women's team of the Ministry of Employment took 2nd place in the "Best Dynamics" category at the final stage of the President's Cup in Gymnastrada.
Under the slogan "Gymnastics for All," aimed at widely promoting a healthy lifestyle among women, engaging them in mass sports, and making regular physical activity a way of life, the final stage of the President's Cup Gymnastrada 2025 competitions was held in cooperation with the Committee on Family and Women's Affairs, the Ministry of Sports, and the Uzbekistan Gymnastics Federation.
More than 40 teams, totaling nearly 900 women, took part from the Republic of Karakalpakstan, Tashkent city, and all regions.
December 13, 2025
UN Women Forum
On December 11 of this year, the UN Women Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, in cooperation with the Committee on Family and Women's Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, held an international forum at the Academy of Public Administration on "The Annual Forum of the Central Asian Alliance to End Gender-Based Violence: Regional Cooperation for a Future Free of Violence."
The forum presented countries' achievements and best practices in preventing and responding to gender-based violence.
Topical issues related to gender-based violence, such as an intersectional approach to protecting women, digital safety, and new challenges such as online violence, were also discussed.
Participants discussed strengthening cooperation mechanisms among members of the Central Asia Alliance to End Gender-Based Violence (CA Alliance) and the Alliance's priority directions for 2026.
December 11, 2025
16-Day Advocacy Campaign in November
On November 28 of this year, in connection with "November 25 — International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women," an international scientific-practical conference on "Ensuring Family Strength and Building a Zero-Tolerance Environment toward Pressure and Violence against Women in Society" was held as part of the 16-day advocacy campaign "Let's Unite to End Digital Violence against Women and Girls."
The main goal of the event was to discuss advanced scientific and practical experience in increasing women's socio-economic activity in our country, scientifically analyze reforms, strengthen cooperation between state policy and civil society institutions, and develop practical recommendations across the fields of education, healthcare, the judicial system, employment, and social protection.
Noting the need to strengthen coordinated actions to turn digital spaces into safe, healthy, and opportunity-creating environments for all women, participants shared their proposals and initiatives on combating digital violence.
November 28, 2025
International Conference Held Against Pressure and Violence toward Women
The National Research University — Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization Engineers organized an international scientific-practical conference titled "The Role and Place of Women in Ensuring Social Stability: Building a Zero-Tolerance Environment toward Pressure and Violence against Women" as part of the "16 Days Against Violence" project.
The event was attended by Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Qongirotboy Sharipov, Legislative Chamber deputy Dilorom Fayzieva, Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Rano Turdiboyeva, Chairwoman of the Society for the Protection of Women's Rights of Uzbekistan Ozoda Islomova, and Munira Qahhorova, a representative of the Institute of Criminological Research and Doctor of Political Sciences.
They shared their views on ensuring gender equality, strengthening women's role in society, legal protection for women, preventing pressure and violence, and expanding scientific research in these areas.
November 25, 2025
Safety and dignity are fundamental human rights for everyone. Today, by launching the "16 Days of Activism against Violence" campaign, we once again reaffirm our firm commitment to upholding these principles in the digital space as well. It is important to understand that the consequences of digital violence are just as deep and painful as violence in real life, and that it undermines a person's personal peace and security.
Of course, guaranteeing that every citizen feels securely protected in the digital environment too is our primary task. That is why we work tirelessly to bring legislation into line with international standards, establish a system for rapid and effective assistance to victims, and ensure a fair resolution to every appeal.
However, even the most perfect laws are powerless without active public participation. Because the fight against violence is not limited to particular days — it is a daily responsibility.
November 25, 2025
Ministry of Employment Team Joins the "Khan-Atlas" Challenge
#khan_atlas_2025
Love for national values is a symbol of high spirituality
The "Khan-Atlas" festival, which has become a tradition in our country, is celebrated with enthusiasm every year.
The main goal of the festival is to preserve our national costumes and fabrics characteristic of our country, and through them, our rich historical and cultural heritage, as well as to strengthen a sense of respect and pride in identity among the younger generation.
In this connection, the "Khan-Atlas" month was widely celebrated in September at all enterprises and organizations across the country.
The women's team of the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction also actively took part in this challenge.
September 30, 2025
Gender Equality in Agricultural Policy — National Dialogue
On June 27, 2025, in cooperation between the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), a high-level national dialogue was held on "Gender Equality in Agricultural Policy — the Foundation of Sustainable Rural Development."
Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction R. Turdiboyeva took part in the event and delivered a presentation on "Expanding Employment Opportunities for Rural Women through National Programs and Inter-Agency Coordination."
The event also featured the presentation of Uzbekistan's first-ever Gender Strategy for the agricultural sector for 2025–2030, and a ceremony for signing inter-agency and international cooperation memoranda by the Ministry of Agriculture for implementing the Strategy.
Representatives of various ministries, international organizations, senators, scholars, researchers, farmers, and students attended the event.
June 27, 2025
OTS — Baku, Second Meeting
On June 11–12 of this year, representatives of the Uzbekistan delegation, led by Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction R. Turdiboyeva, took part in the second meeting of authorized ministers and heads of institutions for family affairs and social policy of the member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), held in Baku, Azerbaijan.
At the event, R. Turdiboyeva emphasized that strengthening the institution of the family, ensuring gender equality, and comprehensively supporting women are among the main directions of our state's policy.
During the meeting, participants proposed cooperation on advancing initiatives to protect the family institution and support the expansion of women's rights and opportunities in various fields, as well as exchanging experience in this regard.
These issues were developed by experts, and a Communiqué was signed following the second meeting of authorized ministers and heads of institutions for family affairs and social policy of OTS member states.
A number of meetings were also organized as part of the event. In particular, at a meeting with specialists from departments and divisions of the State Labor Inspection Service under Azerbaijan's Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population, experience was exchanged on working with the EMAS digital platform of the State Labor Inspection Service.
EMAS is a unified electronic platform aimed at digitalizing the labor and employment sector, integrating all key stakeholders: employers, workers, government bodies, and service centers.
June 12, 2025
International Conference of Women's Public Organizations of Turkic-Speaking States in Tashkent
An international conference of women's public organizations of Turkic-speaking states was held in Tashkent.
Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Rano Turdiboyeva took part with a presentation on "Social Partnership between State and Public Organizations in Developing Women's Entrepreneurship."
For reference: the ministry has established systematic work to develop women's entrepreneurship and create new opportunities for them.
The Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction is building close cooperation with the Uzbekistan Women and Girls Association in fulfilling the state social order. The project "Widely Promoting Home-Based Work among the Population through the 'Kasana.uz' Platform" is a result of this cooperation.
May 28, 2025
"From Commitment to Action" — Round Table with UNICEF
In Tashkent, a round table on "From Commitment to Action: Strategy and National Prospects for Ending Violence against Children" was organized by the National Social Protection Agency in cooperation with the United Nations Children's Fund — UNICEF.
At the event, which was attended by heads of government bodies, representatives of the judicial system, education and healthcare sectors, civil society organizations, young people, and ambassadors of foreign states in Central Asia, Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Rano Turdiboyeva delivered a presentation, noting that ensuring and protecting children's rights and legal interests and creating the best conditions for their full physical, mental, and cultural development are among the state's core obligations.
The conference featured a presentation of the multisectoral strategy and national action plan for child protection, a screening of the short film "I Have a Right," which promotes children's rights, and the announcement of National Commitments within the framework of the "Bogota Call to Action." This Commitment is a logical continuation of a number of important legal and institutional reforms carried out by Uzbekistan in child protection over the past two years. The entry into force of the Law "On Protecting Children from All Forms of Violence" was also an important step in this direction.
The event became an important platform for demonstrating Uzbekistan's firm political will in child protection, defining practical measures, and exchanging international experience.
May 28, 2025
UN Women Representation Opens in Tashkent
An official representation of "UN Women" opened in Tashkent.
Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Rano Turdiboyeva attended the opening ceremony.
Activities of the UN Women representation:
— further deepening cooperation with national institutions;
— opening broad opportunities for women's participation in the economy, politics, and digital development;
— attracting international experience and investment;
— opening new opportunities such as supporting sustainable reforms in women's rights.
It should be specifically noted that on this important date, the first initiative under the country's gender strategy — a process for evaluating state budget decisions from a gender perspective — was also launched. This initiative will be implemented in cooperation between UN Women and the Ministry of Economy and Finance. This is one of the important steps toward systematically integrating gender equality issues into state policy.
May 27, 2025
"My Family — My Pride!"
A cultural and educational event on this theme was held at the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction to mark International Day of Families.
It was attended by family members of People's Artist of Uzbekistan Mirza Azizov — Honored Artist of Uzbekistan Tojibar Azizova, her son, singer Aziz Azizov, Nozima Yusuf, daughter of People's Poet of Uzbekistan Muhammad Yusuf, and Muhiddin Abdusamad, Executive Secretary of the Union of Writers of Uzbekistan and poet — who shared heartfelt memories with attendees about the sanctity of family and the idea that a prosperous and happy life is the meaning of existence.
Moving songs and creative works by representatives of art and poetry gave the event an uplifting spirit.
May 15, 2025
Commentary on the Labor Code Being Prepared with Swiss Support
With financial support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, a commentary on the Labor Code is being prepared.
A meeting was held at the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction as part of this project, attended by the Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan, the Confederation of Employers, representatives of higher education institutions, bloggers, and labor experts.
As noted, the main goal of the project to prepare a commentary on the Labor Code is to raise the population's legal culture, ensure safe working conditions, resolve contradictions in interpreting the norms of the Labor Code, and reduce disputes between employees and employers.
The importance of involving not only experts but also employers and employees in the process of preparing the commentary was noted. This approach helps develop effective mechanisms for implementing the project with high quality while maintaining a balance of interests.
Seminar participants also became closely acquainted with a presentation on "Methodology for Preparing Commentaries on the Labor Code," developed as part of the project.
At the end of the dialogue, a list of candidates was presented for inclusion in the team of authors preparing commentaries on the Labor Code.
April 30, 2025
April 28 — "World Day for Safety and Health at Work"
In connection with April 28 — "World Day for Safety and Health at Work" — an "Occupational Safety Week" was held in the republic from April 28 to May 2.
As part of the week, an international conference on "A New Stage in Occupational Safety: The Role of Artificial Intelligence and Digitalization in the Workplace" was organized at the "Hyatt Regency" hotel in the capital. More than 30 international experts in the field took part. The event discussed the role of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in the occupational safety system, as well as advanced technological approaches for automated detection, monitoring, and prevention of workplace hazards.
The conference was aimed at developing real, concrete solutions to ensure workers' labor safety through digitalization. International Labour Organization representatives Pascal Annycke and Milan Petkovski spoke on "Occupational Safety Statistics" and "Analysis of the Compliance of Uzbekistan's National Legislation on Occupational Safety with ILO Conventions." They emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between various organizations — government services, employers, trade unions, and the international community — to achieve common goals.
During the event, the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction and the Federation of Trade Unions recognized the winners of the "Best Employer in Occupational Safety" and "Best Occupational Safety Employee" competitions.
April 28, 2025
Women Parliamentarians Forum
A Forum of Women Parliamentarians is being held in Tashkent as part of the 150th anniversary assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union.
More than 200 parliamentarians, women leaders, and experts from around the world are discussing the most important issues related to gender equality, women's political leadership, and human rights.
Over 40 years of activity, the Forum of Women Parliamentarians has worked to expand women's participation in the political process and advance gender equality.
Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Rano Turdiboyeva took part in this prestigious forum with a presentation, emphasizing the importance of inter-parliamentary cooperation in protecting women's rights, ensuring gender equality and employment, and increasing their activity across various fields in our country.
All events within the assembly will be held April 5–9 in the Congress Hall of the "Tashkent City" international business center. Important international documents, including the Tashkent Declaration, will also be adopted during the assembly.
April 6, 2025
Uzbekistan Country Platform Round Table
On February 25 of this year, another round table of the Uzbekistan Country Platform was held.
The event, organized in cooperation with the Agency for Strategic Reforms under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Delegation of the European Union to Uzbekistan, was attended by local and foreign experts, a number of ministries, international financial organizations, and members of the general public.
The Uzbekistan Country Platform serves as an important mechanism for coordinating cooperation between the government and international organizations in implementing the "Uzbekistan-2030" strategy. The Country Platform operates through 13 sectoral working groups that bring together key government ministries and partners on priority areas of strategic reform and investment.
At the event, officials discussed ongoing work on the strategy for improving public financial management for 2025–2030, as well as priority areas such as digitalizing the financing process and financing based on environmental and gender equality principles.
February 26, 2025
Civil Society Week Forum
On December 3, a public forum on "Social Responsibility and Social Entrepreneurship" was held as part of Civil Society Week.
The event, organized by the "Yuksalish" movement in cooperation with partners, was attended by representatives of government bodies, business circles, international experts, and non-governmental non-profit organizations.
At the conclusion of the forum, recommendations were developed for building a culture of understanding socially responsible business, transitioning from social responsibility to social business, and training modern business managers.
December 3, 2024
Conference on Utilizing Uzbekistan's Demographic Dividend
An international conference on "Utilizing the Demographic Dividend in Uzbekistan: Realizing the Potential of Women and Youth through Human Capital Development" was organized.
The event, organized in cooperation with UNFPA, the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Committee on Family and Women's Affairs, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and the Research Institute of Family and Gender, brought together specialists and experts from local and international organizations to study strategies for leveraging Uzbekistan's demographic advantage.
The conference served as an important platform for high-level dialogue, bringing together government representatives, private sector leaders, academic circles, and civil society to address issues of demographic sustainability and trends.
At the conclusion of the event, a comprehensive final document was developed containing practical recommendations for converting demographic opportunities into sustainable economic growth, improving healthcare and education systems, and creating jobs matching population growth.
November 22, 2024
16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence
In Uzbekistan, the official opening of the international campaign "16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence" took place, organized by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) with support from the National Social Protection Agency under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Government of the United Kingdom.
National and international aspects of cooperation and prospects for combating violence were discussed.
As part of the "16 Days of Activism" campaign, events aimed at combating gender-based violence, raising awareness, developing dialogue, and mobilizing action continue throughout Uzbekistan.
November 25, 2024
Engaging Women in Entrepreneurship
Today, the state pays great attention to engaging women in entrepreneurship and stimulating their activities.
According to statistics, as of January 1, 2024, women manage more than 95,000 business entities operating in our country, and more than 111,000 women currently work as individual entrepreneurs.
The event held on the theme "Businesswoman — Heroine" is also evidence of work in this field and a prologue to future goals.
During the forum, prominent businesswomen presented, through an auction format, self-employment resources to 30 women registered in the social protection registry — unemployed women, those who lost a breadwinner, women with disabilities, and those invited from regions of the republic — including confectionery ovens, sewing machines, free vouchers for vocational training courses, products manufactured by a textile entrepreneur, and lamps.
As a result of the event, a total of 57 memorandums were signed between regional departments of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and entrepreneurs, under which jobs will be created for approximately 2,000 socially vulnerable women.
November 27, 2024
Strengthening Social Justice through Harmonizing Employment and Social Protection
As previously reported, an international conference on "Strengthening the Principles of Social Justice in Uzbekistan through Harmonizing Employment and Social Protection" was held today in the capital.
The conference was attended by the International Labour Organization, the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Federation of Trade Unions, the National Social Protection Agency under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Confederation of Employers of Uzbekistan, officials of the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction, representatives of the diplomatic corps, scholars, and specialists.
Speakers noted that, thanks to the political will of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the close cooperation established with the International Labour Organization, our country is achieving high results in the labor sector.
In particular, it was specifically noted that forced and child labor have been completely eradicated, decent working conditions based on a green economy are being actively introduced, and the lifting of the boycott on Uzbek cotton has improved Uzbekistan's standing in international rankings and indices, resulting in well-known global brands entering the country's market.
As noted, Uzbekistan's election as a member of the ILO Governing Body can be seen as recognition of our country's achievements in the labor sector, as well as a result of the close cooperation established with this organization.
Membership in the Governing Body opens new opportunities for our state to actively participate in shaping and implementing the global agenda on labor and social justice issues, and to make constructive proposals for improving social labor relations.
As is known, protecting human rights, creating decent jobs, ensuring employment, and strengthening social protection are integral parts of the "Uzbekistan – 2030" strategy.
In this regard, great attention is paid to personnel training and retraining, and the network of vocational training centers is expanding. Favorable conditions are being created for entrepreneurs, with preferential loans and subsidies allocated to support them. Special attention is given to creating "green" jobs, and environmentally friendly sectors such as renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and agriculture are developing rapidly in Uzbekistan.
The reforms implemented have had a significant positive impact on employment indicators in Uzbekistan. The country's unemployment rate fell from 10.5% in 2020 to 6.8% by 2024.
The poverty rate fell from 17% in 2021 to 11% by the end of 2023.
During panel sessions organized as part of the conference, participants presented on topics such as "The Current State of Labor Standards and Rights," "Space for Civic Activism and Labor Rights," "Future Directions in Protecting Labor Rights," "Financing Decent Jobs for the Transition to a Green Economy," and others.
Ensuring Women's Employment Using the Example of "Qirsadaq" Mahalla
The republican working group led by Senate Chairwoman Tanzila Norboyeva developed a model system for launching work to support women starting from the mahalla level in the Yangiyul and Okkurgan districts of Tashkent region.
After the working group's visit, work to provide vocational training, ensure employment, and involve women in entrepreneurship in "Qirsadaq" mahalla was launched based on a completely new approach and system.
In particular, a preliminary list of 589,000 women across the republic who expressed a desire to work, broken down by mahalla, was compiled, and target indicators were developed for training 252,885 women in vocational and entrepreneurial skills by region in 2024.
Furthermore, 250 recommended business projects for developing women's entrepreneurship were prepared through the People's Bank, Mikrokreditbank, and Business Development Bank.
At a republican seminar held in a video-conference format to implement this work in all regions of the republic, Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Rano Turdiboyeva reported on efforts to support women's employment.
For reference, according to instructions from the head of state, in 2024 it is planned to ensure employment for nearly 580,000 unemployed women in 9,442 mahallas, train 205,000 women in professions in high demand in the labor market, and direct at least 40% of family entrepreneurship loans to projects proposed by women.
Gender Audit Review Underway at the Ministry and within Its System
During May–June of this year, a working group on gender auditing at the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction is conducting a corresponding review.
As is known, under Law No. ZRU-809 of the Republic of Uzbekistan, dated December 15, 2022, "On Amendments and Additions to the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan 'On Guarantees of Equal Rights and Opportunities for Women and Men,'" the task of conducting gender audits has been assigned to the Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan, and, according to the approved three-year plan, is to be carried out within the framework of public oversight in government bodies and organizations.
This involves studying and evaluating compliance with legislative requirements on guarantees of equal rights and opportunities for women and men in the activities of government bodies and organizations, including personnel policy, as well as examining a comprehensive gender-mainstreaming approach.
The main tasks of the gender audit are:
studying the ratio of women and men in government bodies and organizations;
examining whether government bodies and organizations organize their activities based on a comprehensive gender-mainstreaming approach;
assessing the implementation status of legislation on ensuring equal rights and opportunities for women and men.
The working group is also studying the establishment and activities of the Advisory Council on Ensuring Equal Rights and Opportunities for Women and Men within the ministry, as well as, in terms of the percentage of women and men, indicators for the ministry's central office and its system — the personnel reserve, professional training, skills development, employee health, the implementation of state programs, roadmaps, and measures based on a comprehensive gender-mainstreaming approach, and the availability in local documents of individually adopted employer documents related to labor relations — employment contracts, collective agreements, collective contracts, internal labor regulations, rest periods, wages, incentives, disciplinary sanctions, and the creation of safe working conditions.
Practical Seminar on the Ministry's Role in Achieving the New Uzbekistan Gender Equality Strategy by 2030
A practical seminar was organized on "The Role of the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction in Implementing the Future Goals of the New Uzbekistan Gender Equality Strategy through 2030."
On June 27 of this year, a practical seminar-training was organized by the gender audit working group at the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction.
At the seminar, Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Turdiboyeva Rano Eshovna, in her opening remarks, spoke about the implementation of the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On Guarantees of Equal Rights and Opportunities for Women and Men," as well as ongoing work at the ministry on gender equality, noting that a working group formed by the Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan together with the ministry and other agencies is currently conducting a gender audit.
Several speakers took part in the seminar. In particular, Toychiev Dusmurod Toychievich, Deputy Head of the Labor Inspection of the Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan and Chief State Labor Inspector, spoke about the introduction of a new mechanism for "gender auditing" under Law No. ZRU-809, adopted on December 15, 2022, with its main tasks, the procedure for conducting gender audits, and the review of their results established by special norms. He noted that the task of conducting gender audits has been assigned to the Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan and that, according to the approved three-year plan, the review is being conducted within the framework of public oversight in government bodies and organizations.
Precisely within the framework of this audit, specialists at the practical seminar held by the working group's experts discussed in detail the "Methodology for Conducting Gender Audits in Government Bodies and Organizations," "Issues in Ensuring Gender Equality in Uzbekistan, Achievements, and Priority Tasks," as well as the content of gender-related legislation.
Mokhira Kholikova, Director of the Tashkent City National Center for Training Educators in New Methodologies under the Ministry of Preschool and School Education, Doctor of Philosophy, and Associate Professor, organized an engaging practical training for staff on "Uzbekistan's Gender Policy as an Important Criterion for Guaranteeing Human Rights."
At this seminar, organized in a question-and-answer and discussion format, staff further reinforced their knowledge in this area.
Malaysia — Intergovernmental Commission
The first meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Issues is currently underway in Malaysia. Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Rano Turdiboyeva also took part.
At the event, the Deputy Minister delivered a presentation on the reforms and results achieved in recent years in reducing poverty in our country, as well as on incorporating gender equality norms from international labor legislation into national legislation.
Cooperation ties between the two countries have shown notable growth in recent years. Along with a number of other countries, Malaysia's experience in observing gender equality principles in poverty reduction and employment is also being studied.
At the event, agreement was reached on further expanding effective cooperation between Uzbekistan and Malaysia and jointly implementing projects.
Malaysia has the "Madani" program for reducing poverty and improving public welfare, as well as the "E-Kasih" and "Azam" programs for working with low-income families.
Turkey — Ministry of Labor and Social Security
Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Rano Turdiboyeva met with the leadership of Turkey's Ministry of Labor and Social Security.
The dialogue covered developing a national qualifications system in line with gender equality principles, including developing occupational standards, preparing training programs, and establishing an exchange of experience on qualification assessment.
At the meeting, agreement was reached to sign a memorandum of understanding on these areas and develop a roadmap. A number of proposals were also put forward regarding sending specialists from the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction to Turkey for experience exchange during the current year, and gradually piloting a mandatory certification system in Uzbekistan for professions related to human life, health, and safety.
Consultations on Central Asia and Azerbaijan were held in Tashkent as part of the upcoming session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women. A representative of the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction took part in the meeting.
A meeting was held at Turkey's Ministry of Family and Social Services with the participation of departments working with women.
The meeting explored Turkey's state policy on gender and domestic violence, gender equality, and protecting victims of gender-based violence, the ministry's role in providing services to persons at risk of gender and domestic violence, expanding women's economic opportunities, reintegrating women, working with men who are perpetrators of violence, inter-agency working mechanisms and methods in this field, and improving service delivery mechanisms. A representative of the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction took part in the meeting.
"The Role of Gender Balance in Business"
On May 15 of this year, the III International Conference on "The Role of Gender Balance in Business: The Gender-Sensitive Employer" was held.
The purpose of this conference was to discuss the current state of gender policy in the business environment and develop specific proposals and recommendations for improving working conditions with gender equality in mind.
Deputy Minister R. Turdiboyeva and international experts shared their experience, discussing the current large-scale work being carried out in Uzbekistan to ensure gender equality among employers in providing employment, as well as ensuring women's employment, helping them find their place in the labor market, providing them with vocational training, and creating opportunities and conditions for women to work without any pressure or violence.
International experts particularly recognized the work being carried out in the country on gender equality.
Tripartite agreements were signed with international employers to strengthen outreach efforts to convey the essence of gender equality legislation to citizens, and to strengthen international relations in implementing gender policy. The document defined the basic rights and obligations of all stakeholders in ensuring gender equality in the workplace.
Important Steps Toward Gender Equality
On November 20, 2023, a training on studying prospects (foresight) for gender equality and expanding women's opportunities in Uzbekistan was held as part of the project of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan and UNDP, "Achieving Equality by Supporting the Implementation of Uzbekistan's National Gender Strategy."
Specialists from the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction also actively took part.
Using forecasting technology, group participants analyzed projections and necessary indicators for achieving gender balance by 2030 and 2050.
Conditions that would facilitate achieving these projections were discussed, and barriers to necessary changes were identified.
An important aspect of the training was recording achievements to successfully attain the necessary results in the future.
Resilient Women of New Uzbekistan
On March 19 of this year, the I International Forum "Resilient Women of New Uzbekistan" was held. Participants exchanged international experience on comprehensively supporting women, increasing their socio-economic and political activity in society, expanding the ranks of women with higher education, involving them in scientific activity and entrepreneurship, ensuring their employment, the importance of women's role in raising future generations and children, forming a healthy spiritual and moral environment in the family, improving their health culture, as well as demonstrations of national costumes of Eastern women and international experience on gender equality.
Forum participants included officials from the National Guard of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Committee on Family and Women's Affairs, ministries, agencies, and organizations, professors from foreign higher education institutions, experts, doctoral candidates and women researchers, female students, and media representatives. Deputy Minister R. Turdiboyeva opened the forum with introductory remarks and delivered a presentation on ensuring the employment of women and men.
