A joint program aimed at expanding women's economic opportunities has been launched in Uzbekistan.
Through the program, 1,000 families in Uzbekistan will be supported in developing equal family practices and accessing employment opportunities, while 3,000 couples will benefit from pre-marital and family counseling services.
Within the framework of cooperation between the European Union and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the European Union, together with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), UN Women, and UNICEF, has officially launched a new Joint Programme titled "Expanding Economic Opportunities for Women in Uzbekistan."
The programme provides significant investments in human capital, reproductive health, and demographic stability, and strengthens women's access to quality family planning services, decent work, education, and entrepreneurial opportunities, with a particular focus on gender equality, employment, and inclusive economic growth.
"The Government of Uzbekistan remains committed to promoting gender equality and expanding opportunities for women in all spheres. This programme serves to strengthen women's economic participation, support families, and ensure sustainable development in our country," said Zulaykho Makhkamova, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan and Chairperson of the Family and Women's Committee, who participated in the event.
The programme integrates areas of economic opportunity, changing social norms, and access to rights-based reproductive health services. Through targeted skills development, entrepreneurship support, and partnership with the private sector, the programme expands women's access to decent work and sources of income.
"Empowering women economically is not just a matter of equality — it is a necessary condition for sustainable growth and a more resilient society. Through this initiative, the European Union is proud to support Uzbekistan in turning its reform goals into real opportunities for women across the country," noted Toivo Klaar, Ambassador of the European Union to Uzbekistan.
The programme also strengthens access to essential services, including reproductive health and family planning services. This enables women to make informed decisions about their health, families, and living conditions.
"Women's economic empowerment is closely linked to health, rights, and choice. Through this programme, UNFPA is committed to ensuring that women can make informed decisions about their lives, access quality services, and fully participate in economic and social life," said Dr. Nigina Abaszade, Permanent Representative of the United Nations Population Fund in Uzbekistan.
It is noted that through the programme, 1,000 families in Uzbekistan will be supported in developing equitable family practices and accessing employment opportunities, while 3,000 couples will benefit from pre-marital and family counseling services. 700 adolescent girls, including 150 girls with disabilities, will gain access to life skills development, education, and employment opportunities.
5,000 women will receive vocational and digital education and be supported in entrepreneurship development. Additionally, plans to enhance the economic opportunities of hundreds more women have been outlined.
For information: The joint programme "Expanding Economic Opportunities for Women in Uzbekistan" is funded by the European Union, with a total budget of 5.1 million euros. The programme will be implemented over the period 2026–2028. It is led by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), in partnership with UN Women and UNICEF, and will be rolled out across Uzbekistan with targeted activities in 14 regions.
