United Nations in Uzbekistan

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Uzbekistan:

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Publication

11 August 2023

Uzbekistan United Nations Country Results Report 2022

The 2022 UN Country Results Report presents key achievements and impact delivered by the 25 UN entities working together with the Government of Uzbekistan. This report showcases the many ways in which the UN system worked closely with a wide range of partners to turn the aspirations of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development into concrete results for women and girls, youth and vulnerable people across all regions of Uzbekistan under the overarching vision of a more just, equal and resilient society. , filtered_html

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26 May 2025

Inside the investment in cancer care: What’s changed with the arrival of new technologies

Over 100,000 cancer patients are currently registered in Uzbekistan. Alarmingly, more than half of these patients are diagnosed at stage III or IV, requiring treatment that combines surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Among these, breast cancer stands out as one of the leading cancers affecting women in the country. In 2022, it made up 14% of all new cancer cases, and 45% of those cases ended in death. “Just ten years ago, breast cancer was considered a disease of older women, mostly over 60. Today, it is getting younger. Cases are now being diagnosed in women as young as 20 to 25 years old”, says Dr. Lola. For women today, awareness, self-checks, and early detection are no longer optional — they are essential. Especially now, as proactive care has become more accessible than ever, thanks to the installation of new medical equipment across all regions of Uzbekistan.In 2024, a joint initiative by the Government of Uzbekistan, the Islamic Development Bank, and UNOPS equipped 14 hospitals with 1,500 units of advanced medical equipment, worth over USD 62 million. These technologies, many introduced for the first time in the country and still rare in Central Asia, are reshaping cancer care. Dr. Lola Zokirova explains how.“A few years ago, access to mammography was extremely limited — just one or two machines in the entire country, and only in private clinics. Today, every regional branch of the oncology and radiology center is equipped with a mammography machine”, says Dr. Lola. A similar situation existed with PET-CT scans, once only available in a single private clinic. “Due to long waiting lists and limited access, many patients were forced to travel abroad to undergo the procedure. Today, the PET-CT scan installed in the center is offered free of charge, making this critical diagnostic service accessible to all patients in Uzbekistan”, she adds. Equipped with modern technology that aligns with global standards, the centers are now able to deliver integrated and advanced cancer care. 37 new multifunctional ultrasound scanners worth USD 1.2 million, have been installed across all regions of Uzbekistan — a key tool for diagnosing breast cancer, especially in women under 40.In addition, 12 digital mammography systems, with a total value of USD 2.5 million, installed across the country, support enhanced breast screening. Unlike older mammography machines, which involved higher radiation exposure, the new technology used at the centers is safe and delivers significantly higher image quality. “This new generation of mammography is a revolution in breast imaging. It includes tomosynthesis and vacuum-assisted biopsy to detect tumors at an extremely early stage — even ones as small as 0.5 mm, smaller than a grain of rice! It also allows for precise tissue sampling without surgery, so treatment begins long before the tumor becomes clinically visible”, notes Dr. Lola.The PET-CT scanner, installed in the capital at a cost of USD 2.3 million, is a vital tool. This advanced and rare equipment helps to assess the spread of cancer and detect metastasis and determine the exact stage of the disease to choose the most effective treatment strategy and monitor the progress of the selected therapy. Every region in the country can now conduct regular screenings for women over 40, including breast imaging. These images are sent to a central reading center in Tashkent, where radiologists analyze them using advanced systems. If any signs of cancer are detected, patients are called in for further evaluation.The transformation of the center can clearly be seen through the example of just one type of cancer. Today, it not only offers accurate diagnostics but also provides full treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, for those diagnosed with cancer. All under one roof.Most importantly, the new equipment has not just improved the quality of medical care; it has changed the way women perceive the disease. “With the advancements in this field, I have noticed a real change in women's behavior. While in the past many women were hesitant to speak up about their concerns, now they voluntarily undergo screenings and treatment. That says a lot,” noted Dr. Lola. This willingness is a sign of growing trust in the healthcare system achieved through greater access to high-quality technologies and services — free healthcare, early diagnosis, and the latest medical advancements. They were driven by the procurement of advanced medical equipment, which has significantly improved the availability of diagnostic and treatment tools. As a result, women are now better informed about the risks, the value of early detection, and how regular screenings can greatly improve treatment outcomes. , filtered_html

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11 March 2025

UNHCR integrates Termez hub in Uzbekistan into global stockpile network

Starting 2025, the regional logistics hub in Termez, Uzbekistan will be part of UNHCR’s global network of humanitarian emergency response stockpiles. As the eighth global stockpile, the move strengthens UNHCR’s capacity to rapidly deliver core relief items to forcibly displaced people around the world and aligns with Uzbekistan’s commitment to supporting humanitarian action.UNHCR established the regional logistics hub in the Termez Cargo Centre in 2021 with the support of the Government of Uzbekistan and in response to the Afghanistan emergency. The hub was initially a pilot project, testing whether maintaining a stockpile in a country neighboring Afghanistan would enable UNHCR to rapidly replenish local stockpiles and be more agile in its humanitarian response, while reducing costs and risks associated with carrying large inventory in each country affected by the Afghanistan situation. Since then, UNHCR has processed over 7,000 metric tons of urgent humanitarian supplies through the hub, via four airlifts and more than 720 trucks.The UNHCR stockpile network enables the organization to respond to emergencies across the world, providing essential relief items – including blankets, mattresses, solar lamps and kitchen sets – to up to one million people who have been forced to flee their homes.“Providing vulnerable refugees and internally displaced people with these core relief items supports their dignity, health, privacy and self-reliance, reducing further protection risks,” says Dumitru Lipcanu, acting UNHCR Representative for Central Asia. “Inclusion of the hub into our global stockpile network will allow us to leverage the services and connections available from Termez even further, to better and more efficiently support people who have been forced to flee their homes.”The official launch of the UNHCR Global Stockpile Termez was held on 11 February, attended by Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Afghanistan, Ismatullah Irgashev; UN Deputy Special Representative for Afghanistan, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Indrika Ratwatte; UN Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan, Sabine Machl; UNHCR Representative for Afghanistan, Arafat Jamal; and acting UNHCR Representative for Central Asia, Dumitru Lipcanu.“The formal integration of the Termez hub into UNHCR’s global network is evidence of Uzbekistan’s commitment to the principles of multilateralism and reinforces its role as a proactive member of the international community,” said Sabine Machl, the UN Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan. “Millions of people who have been displaced from their homes or affected by crises are expected to benefit from the vital assistance provided by UNHCR.”In his speech at the ceremony, Special Representative Irgashev noted that the hub in Termez is a symbol of international cooperation, reliability and efficiency that will not only strengthen the humanitarian supply chain but also contribute to the development of the region by creating new opportunities and jobs.In 2024, UNHCR completed a first-in-the-world project to solarize the hub, transforming it into an operation powered by clean energy. The 700kW solar photovoltaic powerplant will reduce carbon emissions and result in significant annual electivity savings, which will benefit local energy infrastructure by reducing operating costs and allowing for reinvestment in further sustainable initiatives.In addition to Termez, UNHCR maintains global stockpiles in Accra, Ghana; Amman, Jordan; Copenhagen, Denmark; Douala, Cameroon; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Nairobi, Kenya; and Panama City, Panama., filtered_html

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04 February 2025

Transforming Industrial Zones in Uzbekistan: A Step Towards Sustainability

Organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in collaboration with the Institute of Legislation and Legal Policy (ILLP), the hybrid-format event gathered over 31 participants, including government officials, industry representatives, and international experts to advance the transformation of Uzbekistan’s industrial zones into eco-friendly and sustainable hubs. The seminar featured prominent speakers, including representatives from the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade, GIZ and UNIDO, as well as other international and national experts. Key discussion addressed EIP concept and its key components, policy gap analysis and strategies for developing EIP enabling regulations, with insights from both international and national experience. The seminar began with opening remarks from key guests, including Mr. Uchqun Hudoyqulov, a representative of the Ministry of Investment, Industry, and Trade, who emphasized the government’s commitment to advancing sustainable industrial practices in Uzbekistan. In his speech, he noted:"Uzbekistan is at a crucial point in its industrial development, and the integration of eco-industrial principles is essential for ensuring long-term sustainability. The transformation of industrial zones into eco-industrial parks will not only enhance resource efficiency but also strengthen our global competitiveness and foster a greener economy for future generations."
This was followed by remarks from Mr. Igor Eromenko, the GIZ component manager, who highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in achieving sustainable industrial transformation. He stated:"Eco-industrial parks represent a unique opportunity to balance economic growth with environmental protection. By working together—governments, businesses, and international organizations—we can build industrial zones that not only drive economic development but also contribute to a sustainable and inclusive future for Uzbekistan."Ms. Tatiana Chernyavskaya, UNIDO Project Manager, confirmed UNIDO’s commitment to supporting Uzbekistan’s journey toward sustainable industrial development. She said:
"The EIP approach is more than just a strategy for industrial growth—it is a framework for creating resilient and resource-efficient systems that benefit not only businesses but also the environment and communities. UNIDO will continue to provide technical assistance and build capacity to ensure the successful transformation of Uzbekistan’s industrial zones into eco-industrial parks."The seminar included a presentation by Dick van Beers, UNIDO international EIP Expert, on the advantages of EIP, highlighting international success stories and good practices from other countries, offering practical examples of EIP implementation that Uzbekistan could adapt.
The event also explored how industrial symbiosis can enhance resource efficiency by encouraging companies to share materials, energy, and water, reducing costs and environmental impact. A session led by Mr. Jean-Paul Gauthier, Senior Policy Expert at UNIDO, emphasized why ordinary laws governing special economic zones, labour, and the environment may not suffice, underscoring the need for EIP-specific regulations.Additionally, Mr Kovshov, Legal Policy Expert at ILLP, presented an analysis of Uzbekistan’s regulatory framework, examining its current status and the prospects for adoption of EIP standards. A subsequent discussion led by ILLP offered a platform for participants to exchange ideas on ways to refine national strategies by identifying key financial, regulatory, and technical barriers, as well as opportunities to enhance public-private collaboration in overcoming these challenges.Mr. Xojiislom Muxtarov, Senior Specialist of the Agency of Strategic Reforms under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, shared his perspective on the significance of EIPs for sustainable industrial development. He remarked:"The Eco-Industrial Park initiative is not only an essential step for achieving sustainable industrial growth but also a powerful driver for regional economic and social development. I am particularly interested in the project’s implementation in Samarkand, as it is not just a strategic location but also holds personal significance for me as the hometown of my parents. This initiative will showcase how regional industrial zones can become models of sustainability and innovation."The seminar fostered active engagement through Q&A sessions, enabling both in-person and online participants to exchange ideas, raise questions, and explore practical measures to advance EIP development in Uzbekistan. Participants also completed pre- and post-seminar questionnaires, offering insights into their evolving understanding of EIPs.
At the conclusion of the seminar, participants demonstrated an improved understanding of the EIP concept and a stronger appreciation of its potential benefits. The feedback collected will inform ongoing efforts to refine Uzbekistan's legal and policy frameworks and create a roadmap for transforming Uzbekistan’s industrial zones into sustainable and resource-efficient parks.The seminar’s success marks a step forward in Uzbekistan’s journey toward sustainable industrial growth. UNIDO and its partners will continue working to build national capacity, improve regulations, and attract investments to support the development of eco-industrial parks.

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13 December 2024

Construction is a job FOR WOMEN: story of Makhliyo

A lack of emotional support from parents, stigma from society, and limited opportunities for personal development. Despite these challenges, she became the first student at her school to graduate with honors and get accepted into her dream school, the Tashkent Institute of Architecture and Civil Engineering. “The hardest challenges we face are not the physical ones, but the biases and prejudices that exist in our society”, Makhliyo recalls her experience after graduating from the institute. Still existing gender-based discrimination in the professions that have traditionally been considered male-dominated poses barriers for women to prove their competence in these fields. “I was always told that I could not hold senior positions or manage clients just because I am a woman”, she shares. Such discrimination in the workplace, in the example of gender stereotypes and biases, limited her opportunities for professional growth and development. However, she refused to let stereotypes define her future.In early 2023, Makhliyo joined UNOPS in Uzbekistan as an architect. At UNOPS, she found a workplace that supported her growth and believed in her potential. Within the organization, she works in construction and design management, and contributes to large-scale infrastructure developments. “Here I feel I am being treated with fairness and given equal opportunities to contribute my ideas. It motivates me to do my best work”, says Makhliyo.UNOPS, among other UN agencies, champion gender equality in all sectors. Construction is an area where women are often underrepresented. In fact, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO), women make up only about 9% of the workforce in construction globally, a sector historically dominated by men. However, studies show that gender-diverse teams tend to outperform those with less diversity. Did you know that when women are included in infrastructure projects, the outcomes are more sustainable and equitable for entire communities? Diversity wins, how? Check out this article.This is why UNOPS has prioritized gender equality as a core part of its mission. By investing in women and creating an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of gender, has the chance to thrive, the organization supports women in leadership roles and encourages them to contribute their ideas and expertise in all areas. It brings stronger, inclusive and sustainable outcomes for all. “Architecture is not only about designing and constructing buildings, it is creating an environment that promotes safety, inclusivity, dignity and well-being”. Makhliyo found a supportive environment, where she can realize her full potential and make a positive impact, regardless of her background, personal characteristics or circumstances. And now, you're probably curious what this story is about.Makhliyo’s story is not just about one woman overcoming obstacles; it is about the countless women who face similar challenges in male-dominated industries around the world. It’s about breaking the circle of stigma and discrimination that holds many women back . It is about showing that women can be leaders, builders, and architects of change. By sharing one journey, your writer hopes it helps challenge the stereotypes that women don’t belong in industries, where they are not encouraged.
It is also about employers and organizations, playing a key role in this shift by creating a work environment where they can reach their full potential and contributing to a larger movement of empowerment, equality, and change that goes far beyond one individual. Organizations that foster diverse, inclusive cultures see better decision-making, improved innovation, and stronger team collaboration.Finally, this story is about reminding that women’s voices need to be heard and supported to break down barriers, change perceptions, and build a future where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Hear Makhliyo now. “Construction is a job FOR WOMEN!” she says proudly. “We are the builders of a better future.” And she is right.

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30 October 2024

Collaborative action for cancer care: Uzbekistan, UNOPS, and IsDB deliver a major oncology equipment initiative

In response, the government, in collaboration with UNOPS, has launched a significant initiative to procure and deliver advanced oncology equipment across 13 regions and Tashkent city, supported by a $70.7 million loan from the Islamic Development Bank.In this joint shared mission, UNOPS assisted with the procurement, supply, installation, and operationalization of essential medical equipment, consumables, and ancillary items with adherence to national legislation and IAEA safety standards for radioactive items. The project aimed to provide 150,000 cancer patients with enhanced oncology services annually, increasing daily outpatient clinical services by 40% and inpatient services by 20%. As of October 2024, UNOPS has delivered over $60 million worth of equipment to 14 project locations, including all 13 country regions and Tashkent city. This includes approximately 1,500 pieces of equipment, with 90% already installed and ready for use. The newly inaugurated Oncology and Radiology Medical Center in Tashkent received equipment valued at over $30 million - it is 500+ units of equipment. The categories of equipment - ranging from radiation therapy devices to imaging systems, surgical tools, laboratory analyzers, and information technology - will play a critical role in facilitating the expected outcomes of the project. There are 3 linear accelerators, 5 brachytherapy units, 12 radiotherapy devices, 17 stationary digital X-ray units, and 21 mobile X-ray units in the center. This radiation therapy equipment will enhance treatment capabilities, providing advanced tools for oncologists and reducing side effects through precision-targeted therapies. 7 MRI machines, 6 MSCT machines, 3 angiography systems, and 1 PET/CT unit among other imaging systems will provide early diagnosis and better management of diseases with access to information for decision-making. “There are only a few MRI machines like this in the world. It enables the diagnosis of a wide range of tumors, including very small ones. Previously, we had to refer patients to other clinics [abroad] for examinations. Now, we can quickly and accurately diagnose right here [in Uzbekistan]. This has elevated our center to the highest global standards”, noted Odiljon Akhmedov, head of department of the center. Surgical and anesthesia equipment (anesthesia machines and ventilators, surgical instruments and operation theater equipment) will allow for a wider range of operations, enhancing surgical efficiency and outcomes. It is reported that with the new equipment, the center plans to perform 6,000 high-tech operations annually, including oncosurgical, minimally invasive, angiosurgical, radiosurgical, neurosurgical, reconstructive, and bone marrow transplants.“As you walk through the floors of this center and see all the equipment we have acquired - much of it once only a dream - you realize this is the most advanced technology available in the world. With such extensive resources, we can accommodate a large number of patients, allowing them to receive care without needing to travel abroad”, says Elena Boyko, oncourologist, doctor of medical sciences. Laboratory equipment in the center will strengthen diagnostic capabilities, reduce manual workloads and enhance accuracy, while patients benefit from quicker diagnosis and better health management. Information technology and data management, such as cancer registry software, IT equipment, including computers, servers, and LAN infrastructure, will promote data-driven decision-making, improve tracking of health outcomes and streamlines access to patient information. “Thanks to the new equipment and improved conditions, the efficiency of early detection and treatment of cancer at the center will increase significantly. As a result, this will reduce mortality rates, improve recovery rates, and extend lives. Additionally, it will serve as a foundation for the development of medical tourism”, press service for the Office of the President reported. , filtered_html

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Press Release

29 May 2025

UN Women opened the office in Uzbekistan, making a new era for gender equality

A high-level agreement to establish a UN Women office in Tashkent was reached during the visit of UN Under-Secretary-General and UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous to Uzbekistan in May 2024. The opening of the office marks an important milestone in the ongoing collaboration between UN Women and the Government of Uzbekistan. It reflects the country’s commitment to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment as a national development priority. The establishment of a permanent in-country presence will enable UN Women to strengthen its support to partners and national institutions, promote gender-sensitive policies, and contribute to the full realization of women’s rights across all sectors. “We consider the opening of the UN Women office in Uzbekistan as a clear symbol of the international recognition of the positive progress being made in promoting gender equality and women's rights in our country, as well as of the UN’s strong commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society. Undoubtedly, the presence of this office in our country will play a significant role in taking our bilateral relations to a new level and in consistently developing our constructive cooperation further,” – said Tanzila Narbaeva, Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan.The official opening event follows the launch of the EU-funded gender-responsive budgeting (GRB) project, coordinated by UN Women and Ministry of Economy and Finance. This project will be the first implemented by new office and reflects institutional and impactful work UN Women would lead in Uzbekistan. “Let this office stand as a symbol — not only of presence, but of purpose. Of partnership. Of progress. Let it be a beacon for every woman and girl who dares to dream, and for every ally who walks beside her. Because the journey toward equality does not end here with this new office — it begins anew, with deeper commitment, greater hope, and unstoppable momentum.” – in her opening speech stated Elisa Fernandez Saenz, UN Women Europe and Central Asia Deputy Regional Director.Elisa Fernandez Saenz of behalf of UN Women extended heartfelt congratulations to the government officials whose determination made this moment possible and commended the Government of Uzbekistan’s ambitious reform agenda with nearly 40 legislative acts adopted to advance gender equality. “Opening of the new UN Women office in Uzbekistan underlines the country's strong commitment to human development and gender equality. As UN Resident Coordinator, I trust this partnership will boost our shared efforts, helping every woman and girl in Uzbekistan reach their full potential,” - said Sabine Machl, UN Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan. The opening of the office in Uzbekistan also comes at a significant moment for UN Women globally, as in 2025 the organization celebrates its 15th anniversary, 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and 25th anniversary of UNSCR 1325. Since its establishment in 2010, UN Women has been at the forefront of advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls all around the world. By supporting governments, civil society and other partners UN Women has helped develop programs, policies, laws, that promote women’s rights, leadership, freedom from violence and access to justice. The new office in Uzbekistan represents an extension of this legacy, reinforcing UN Women’s commitment not leaving any woman or girl behind. About UN Women:UN Women is the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women. A global champion for women and girls, UN Women was established in June 2010 to accelerate progress on meeting their needs worldwide.UN Women supports UN Member States as they set global standards for achieving gender equality and works with governments and civil society to design laws, policies and services needed to ensure that the standards are effectively implemented and truly benefit women and girls worldwide. It works globally to make the vision of the Sustainable Development Goals a reality for women and girls and stands behind women’s equal participation in all aspects of life, filtered_html

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Press Release

24 April 2025

Restituted Assets Return to Uzbekistan: Ishonch Fund Turns Stolen Money into Tangible Public Benefit

The assets, originally linked to corruption cases involving Gulnara Karimova, are being repurposed to serve the Uzbek population—most recently through two major national projects in healthcare and education, jointly implemented by the United Nations. So far, USD 313 million has been committed to the Fund through bilateral agreements between the two governments. Of this amount, USD 67 million in restituted funds has been disbursed by the Fund’s Management Committee to two projects in health and education, which are already delivering measurable results. Work is underway to allocate and plan the use of the remaining funds.“For Switzerland, our primary objective is to restitute the money transparently and in a way that transforms lives in Uzbekistan,” said Konstantin Obolensky, Ambassador of Switzerland to Uzbekistan. “By partnering with the United Nations, we’ve created a Fund that invests in joint projects delivering real, measurable impact.”“For me, there is only one real measure of success for the Fund,” said Sabine Machl, the UN Secretary General’s representative in Uzbekistan and a member of the Fund Management Committee. “If the people of Uzbekistan feel a difference in their lives, then the restitution is working. This is not ordinary donor funding—it is a significant responsibility and opportunity for the UN to deliver meaningful change through joint programming.”The Ishonch Fund represents a new model for transparent restitution: all funds are administered by UN agencies under strict oversight and with the active involvement of civil society. A Civil Society Advisory Council (CSAC) comprising 19 independent activists plays a central role in monitoring implementation, reviewing project decisions, and promoting accountability.“We participated in project evaluations and received Fund ID cards allowing independent monitoring,” said Sayyora Khodjaeva, the Chair of the Civil Society Advisory Council. Civil society representatives also observe tender and procurement processes and serve on project steering committees. "As is known, Uzbekistan previously paid insufficient attention to civil society. However, in recent years, trust in civil society has been growing, and the involvement of non-governmental organizations in the activities of the Ishonch Fund reflects this increasing trust and a shift in the attitude of government agencies toward us. The establishment of the CSAC under the Ishonch Fund has created an opportunity to actively promote transparency in the restitution process, which will undoubtedly benefit the people of Uzbekistan," added Ms. Khodjaeva.The Fund’s health project—one of its flagship initiatives—targets all 230 perinatal centers across Uzbekistan. This nationwide effort provides modern equipment and advanced training for medical professionals, dramatically improving survival rates for premature babies and reducing maternal complications.Official Ministry of Health data shows that survival rates for low-birth-weight infants— such as those born below 1500 grams—have improved significantly. Previously, three in ten such babies did not survive. Today, that figure has fallen to just one in four.For the citizens of Uzbekistan, these efforts are more than abstract reforms—they are a return of what was unjustly taken, now working to build a stronger, healthier, and more just society.For more information about the Ishonch Fund, please contact: Jonas Astrup, Head of the Fund Secretariat at jonas.astrup@un.org or visit www.ishonch.org, filtered_html

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Press Release

27 February 2025

Language: A bridge to refugee integration and inclusion

On 21 February, the world marks International Mother Language Day – a day to celebrate linguistic diversity and promote the importance of mother tongues. Language is more than a means of communication; it is a bridge to community, connection, and opportunity. Local integration is a key priority for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in Central Asia, where communities generously host around 22,000 forcibly displaced people. Many refugees have been in the region for years, or even decades, speaking local languages and establishing strong family and community ties. Language plays a fundamental role in integration, allowing refugees and asylum-seekers to engage in daily interactions, access services, and form meaningful relationships, as well as contribute to the sustainable development of their host countries. UNHCR works with governments and partners across Central Asia – including Red Crescent Society and Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan; the American University of Central Asia in the Kyrgyz Republic; and Refugees, Children and Vulnerable Citizens (RCVC) in Tajikistan – to provide free language courses for refugees, strengthening their self-reliance, and fostering social cohesion and local integration. To support language diversity and enhance accurate communication on refugee and statelessness issues in the region, on International Mother Language Day 2025 UNHCR has published UNHCR Central Asia Key Terms guide in Kazakh, Kyrgyz, Tajik, Turkmen, Uzbek, English, and Russian languages., filtered_html

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Press Release

29 November 2024

Enhancing laboratory capacity in Uzbekistan through an International Standardization Program

In today's highly mobile, interconnected and interdependent world, old and new threats to public health persist, and laboratories play a crucial role in addressing them. They help detect health risks, monitor diseases, and ensure that the food, water, and products consumed are safe. This includes threats from infectious diseases, as well as emerging risks from chemicals, radiation, and other environmental factors.Ensuring the health and safety of citizens remains a priority for Uzbekistan. In a step to enhance the country’s public health infrastructure, the Sanitary-Epidemiological Welfare and Public Health Committee (SES), in collaboration with UNOPS, the Turkish National Reference Laboratory, and the Turkish Accreditation Agency (TURKAK), has launched an advanced training program, which is being held in Turkey from November 17 to 30, 2024. The training aims to enhance the capacity of national laboratories to meet international standards for testing, research, and safety. "Before this training, we were aware of the importance of meeting international standards, but this hands-on experience has shown us exactly how it impacts our daily work. Learning directly from experts and seeing how modern technologies and methods are applied in practical labs is making a huge difference in how we test, monitor, and improve our laboratory results,” says Mirtokhir Rakhmatov, quality manager of the sanitary and hygienic laboratory in Tashkent.The 10-day training program, designed for 30 specialists from national and regional laboratories in Uzbekistan, focuses on the study and implementation of internationally recognized methods in laboratory research. These methods cover a broad range of risk factors, including chemical, biological, radiological, and physical threats to human health. By strengthening laboratory expertise, Uzbekistan aims to meet the requirements of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and other international economic structures, such as the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), ensuring that domestic products meet global quality and safety standards. "Accreditation is a crucial process that ensures laboratories adhere to the highest international standards. By supporting laboratories in Uzbekistan to obtain international accreditation, we help elevate the country’s global competitiveness, particularly in meeting international benchmarks for product safety," noted Mahmut Köseoğlu, head of department at TURKAK.Upon completion of the program, laboratory experts will have improved qualifications in the use of advanced high-tech equipment procured under Uzbekistan’s Decree #5129. Additionally, the scope of accreditation for laboratories will be expanded, enabling full compliance with WTO regulations. "This training represents more than just technical skill-building — it’s about creating a sustainable framework for laboratories in Uzbekistan to operate at global standards. By supporting this initiative, UNOPS is helping to ensure that the country is better prepared for future health challenges and that local products meet the standards required for international trade, " noted Simon Darke, UNOPS Senior Programme Manager. , filtered_html

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Press Release

12 November 2024

FAO Food Price Index rises in October, its steepest climb in over a year

8/11/2024. Rome - The benchmark for world food commodity prices surged to its highest level in 18 months in October, led by a sharp increase in vegetable oil quotations, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) reported. The FAO Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of a set of globally-traded food commodities, averaged 127.4 points in October, up 2.0 percent from September and 5.5 percent from its value a year ago. Nevertheless, the index remained 20.5 percent below its March 2022 peak.The FAO Vegetable Oil Price Index spiked by 7.3 percent in October, hitting a two-year high as a result of rising quotations for palm, soy, sunflower and rapeseed oil, driven mainly by concerns about production.The FAO Cereal Price Index increased by 0.9 percent in October, led by rising wheat and maize export prices. Global wheat prices were affected by unfavorable weather conditions in major northern hemisphere exporters as well as the re-introduction of an unofficial price floor in the Russian Federation and rising tensions in the Black Sea region. World maize prices rose as well, driven in part by strong domestic demand and transport challenges in Brazil due to low river levels. By contrast, the FAO All Rice Price Index declined by 5.6 percent in October, reflecting lower indica rice quotations driven by expectations of heightened competition among exporters following India’s removal of export restrictions on non-broken rice.The FAO Sugar Price Index increased by 2.6 percent amid persisting concerns over the 2024/25 production outlook in Brazil following extended dry weather conditions. Rising international crude oil prices also contributed to the increase in sugar quotations by shifting more sugarcane toward ethanol production, while the weakening of the Brazilian real against the United States dollar limited the increase.The FAO Dairy Price Index rose by 1.9 percent in October, averaging 21.4 percent above its level the same time last year. The increase was primarily driven by higher international cheese and butter prices, while quotations for milk powders declined.Bucking the general upward trend, the FAO Meat Price Index dropped by 0.3 percent from September, mainly due to lower pig meat prices resulting from increased slaughter rates in Western Europe amid weak domestic and international demand. World poultry prices fell slightly in October, while those of ovine meat remained stable. By contrast, bovine meat prices increased moderately, underpinned by stronger international purchases.Updated 2024/25 forecasts point to more rice and wheat, declining maize outputAccording to FAO’s new Cereal Supply and Demand Brief, also released Friday, global cereal production in 2024 is forecast to decline by around 0.4 percent from the previous year to 2 848 million tonnes, the second-largest output on record.World wheat production is expected to increase, buoyed by production upturns in Asia as a result of area expansions and conducive weather conditions, which more than offset large declines among key producers in Europe. Global coarse grain production is forecast to decline from its 2023 record level, mostly due to a sizeable crop in maize output because of adverse weather conditions. Meanwhile, world rice output in the 2024/25 season could reach a record high of 538.9 million tonnes, boosted by record-breaking plantings.World cereal utilization is forecast to grow by 0.5 percent to 2 857 million tonnes in 2024/25, led by increasing food consumption of rice and wheat. Global cereal stocks are predicted to expand by 0.6 percent to 889 million tonnes, largely due to an expected expansion in rice inventories. This would result in a global cereal stocks-to-use ratio of 30.6 percent, near the five and ten-year average levels.International trade in cereals is now forecast at 485 million tonnes, representing a 3.9 percent contraction from the 2023/24 level. Global trade of rice is forecast to increase, while that of wheat and coarse grains to decline.More details are available here. A more detailed analysis of global cereal markets will be provided in FAO’s next Food Outlook report, to be released on 14 November.The Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS), hosted at FAO, also released its monthly Market Monitor on Friday, featuring, in addition to the regular analysis, a discussion on the evolution of export restrictions on staple crops since 2007.45 countries need external assistance for food, five face acute emergenciesSome 45 countries around the world are assessed to need external assistance for food, according to the latest Crop Prospects and Food Situation report, a triannual publication by FAO’s Global Information and Early Warning System (GIEWS) also published today.The report offers details on conditions in these countries, which include 33 countries in Africa, nine in Asia, two in Latin America and the Caribbean and one in Europe, along with regional data on the highly variegated expected 2024 cereal outputs around the world.Conflicts and insecurity are identified as the primary drivers of severe food insecurity, with populations in the Gaza Strip, Haiti, Mali and the Sudan facing IPC 5 levels of acute food insecurity in 2024.The aggregate cereal output in the 44 Low-Income Food Deficit Countries (LIFDCs) is forecast to be marginally above the five-year average, with overall production in African LIFDCs anticipated to remain near-average, as lower harvests in southern African are anticipated to be offset by increases in other regions. Import needs for this group are also forecast to grow by about 8 percent from the five-year average, with the increase to be concentrated in eastern and southern Africa. , filtered_html

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Where we work: The UN’s programmatic interventions

The UN is implementing 0 programmatic interventions during the ongoing programme cycle. The map below displays the number of programmatic interventions per location (note that a programmatic intervention may be linked to more than one location). Click on the number on the map to get a summary description of the programmatic interventions. Programmatic interventions may be linked to the national level or specific locations/sub-national level. Note that some interventions linked to specific locations might also have components at the national level, even if they are not categorized as country-level interventions. Click on “Show location details” in the bottom right corner to view a summary table with locations, the number of programmatic interventions, and the UN entities working in those locations. For definitions of programmatic interventions, please refer to the Glossary section.

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