National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

At the event, participants discussed the need to develop sustainable, inclusive and gender-sensitive approaches to climate adaptation. Particular attention was paid to women left behind in the face of climate risks without the support of their migrant family members.

Deputy Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change Jusipbek Kazbekov addressed the participants with a welcoming speech. In his speech, he emphasized:
“Women, especially in rural and climate-sensitive areas, play a key role in household resilience. However, without access to information, resources and decision-making processes, their potential remains unrealized. It is important that they are not just participants, but leaders of climate solutions.”

He also announced the launch of a new joint project with IOM aimed at supporting women from migrant families in regions exposed to slowly growing climate threats. The project involves training in sustainable farming methods, developing women's entrepreneurship, expanding access to microfinance and introducing resource-saving technologies such as solar panels and drip irrigation.

The event discussed successful practices implemented in Karakalpakstan and the Kashkadarya region, where women receive training, grants and access to tools that allow them to actively participate in natural resource management and the development of a green economy. Particular attention is paid to involving women in decision-making, increasing their economic independence and leadership potential.

The speakers agreed that sustainable development and effective adaptation to climate change are impossible without the active participation of women. The need for systematic integration of gender aspects into strategic planning, the implementation of climate policy and work on the ground was emphasized.

The session concluded with a call for strengthened cross-sectoral and international partnerships to ensure women’s equal access to opportunities, resources and decision-making processes in the context of climate change. Particular emphasis was placed on supporting women in migration-vulnerable communities as drivers of resilience and positive change.