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

07 December 2025

UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026-2030

The United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework will guide the work of the UN system in Uzbekistan until 2030. This framework builds on the successes of our past cooperation and represents a joint commitment by
the Government of Uzbekistan and the UN system to work in close partnership for the achievement of the national priorities framed by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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Story

02 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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Press Release

22 January 2026

UN and Partners Discuss Uzbekistan’s Vision for 2030

The discussion took place at a pivotal moment, following the signing of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for 2026–2030 by the Government of Uzbekistan and the United Nations in October 2025. The new framework outlines shared priorities and collective commitments to advance sustainable development over the next five years.“The discussion of the Uzbekistan–2030 Strategy is central to the operationalization of the UNSDCF 2026–2030,” said Sabine Machl, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan. “Both frameworks are firmly grounded in people-centered development, evidence-based policymaking, and the principle of leaving no one behind. Their close sequencing offers a unique opportunity to translate long-term national ambitions into measurable and impactful results.”Participants highlighted the strong alignment between the draft strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly its focus on human development, inclusive economic growth, social protection, education, health, and environmental sustainability. These priorities reflect Uzbekistan’s broader reform agenda and its commitment to long-term planning and accountability. During the roundtable, UN agencies shared constructive, forward-looking observations aimed at further strengthening the strategy. Key areas of emphasis included enhancing alignment with the SDG framework and internationally recognized indicators; maintaining a clear distinction between high-level outcome indicators and sector-specific operational targets; strengthening the focus on quality, equity, and impact—especially for children, women, persons with disabilities, and groups at risk of being left behind; and reinforcing value-for-money and sustainability considerations.“These reflections are offered in the spirit of partnership and shared responsibility,” Ms. Machl added. “Our common objective is to ensure that the Uzbekistan–2030 Strategy serves as a robust, coherent, and future-oriented framework that effectively guides implementation across sectors.”The roundtable provided an open platform for dialogue and collaboration, enabling stakeholders to share perspectives and contribute to the refinement of the strategy ahead of its finalization.

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Story

01 July 2026

Every click carries responsibility

In Uzbekistan the number of cybercrimes has increased more than 12 times since 2021, rising from 4,865 to 62,440 cases. Behind these numbers are real people navigating online spaces without always knowing how to recognize risks, protect their data, or respond to digital threats. The Cyber Safety project, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Uzbekistan together with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Regional Office for Afghanistan, Central Asia Iran and Pakistan, and supported by UN Volunteers, was launched to help address these growing challenges. Through awareness sessions and community outreach, volunteers helped people across Uzbekistan better understand digital risks and protect their rights online. In the first article, we shared the experience of UN Volunteer Umidjon Khujabekov and his contribution to promoting safer digital spaces. Now, four more UN Volunteers reflect on the moments that showed them the real impact of their work. Lazzatoy Shukurilloyeva is a university student whose main areas of interest closely align with the goals of the Cyber Safety project. She joined the initiative, believing that technology and education together can create meaningful change.Through awareness activities, Lazzatoy supported efforts to promote online responsibility and cyber awareness among young people. “I told them to use technology wisely to protect their identity. Every click carries responsibility,” she says.Lazzatoy noted that many participants later shared what they had learned with family members by teaching them about privacy settings and online safety. This showed how the project reached far beyond its initial audience.“Awareness is a spark that can reach millions after just a single workshop.”Javoxir Alokulov, a Business Law student at the National University of Uzbekistan, believes that digital safety is an essential skill in today’s world—one that can and should be taught.Like many other UN Volunteers involved in the Cyber Safety initiative, he conducted outreach activities and explained online risks in accessible ways. One of the most meaningful moments for him came when participants shared that they had changed their online habits after learning more about cyber risks.“Think before you click, protect your data, and take responsibility for your digital actions.”This volunteering experience helped him strengthen his communication skills and improve his ability to work effectively in a team. Javoxir notes that while he had always been socially conscious, the Cyber Safety project deepened his sense of responsibility toward his community.When joining the project, Sabrina Shamuratova, a student at Tashkent State University of Law, already had a strong desire to help people navigate the growing challenges posed by online threats. She supported her team in preparing educational materials and, like many of her colleagues, promoted safe online practices among diverse audiences.For Sabrina, one of the most rewarding parts of the experience was seeing how knowledge could influence everyday behavior and help protect people’s futures.For Lazizbek Xamdam, a student of International Relations at the Uzbekistan State World Languages University, the Cyber Safety project became an opportunity to combine academic knowledge with practical action. “Seeing how genuinely interested people were in learning how to protect themselves online touched me deeply,” says Lazizbek.While each volunteer journey is unique, many young people find themselves through experiences like these, sharing knowledge and supporting members of their communities.The Cyber Safety project became a bridge between institutional knowledge and everyday realities. Through conversations, awareness activities, and simple acts of support, UN Volunteers are helping create safer and more informed digital spaces for everyone.

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Story

23 June 2026

“I belong in engineering” - the story of Zarnigor Abdullayeva

Today, Zarnigor is an Associate Construction Management Engineer with UNOPS, a mother of three, and a strong advocate for education in her community. Yet reaching this point was not always easy. It took years of hard work, determination, and overcoming stereotypes in a profession where women are still underrepresented.Growing up in Kashkadarya region, Zarnigor developed an early interest in STEM subjects. She excelled in school, won mathematics Olympiads, and eventually earned a scholarship to study at Turin Polytechnic University in Tashkent."I was the first woman in several generations of my family to receive a higher education," she says. “And it opened opportunities that many women before me did not have." After graduating, Zarnigor began working in the construction sector. While she was passionate about engineering, she found herself having to prove that she belonged in the profession.Throughout her career, she often faced stereotypes about what women could or could not do. Comments, expectations, and assumptions about her abilities were common - all about women’s role in technical professions. "There were many moments when I felt I was not taken seriously," she recalls. "People would compare me to others, question my decisions, or assume that certain tasks were not for women”.Rather than letting these experiences discourage her, Zarnigor focused on building her skills and gaining experience. Over time, she established herself in the profession. Today, Zarnigor brings that experience to her role with UNOPS, where she works in construction management and site supervision. Her achievements helped change perceptions around her. The same family that once had no women in higher education now encourages younger girls to continue their studies and explore new opportunities."My family now asks me to guide my nieces and encourage them to continue their education," she says. "That means a lot to me because it shows how perspectives can change."Her influence extends beyond her family. In her neighbourhood, parents often come to her for advice about their children's education. She regularly speaks with young girls in her community about the importance of education, self-development, and pursuing their interests, regardless of social expectations. Together with a group of friends, she also developed an application to connect young girls and women across Uzbekistan with mentorship opportunities, guidance, and support. What was once considered unusual has become a source of inspiration for those around her."I always tell them that nobody should decide what they are capable of except themselves," she adds. As a mother of three, she hopes to pass the same values of education and perseverance on to her own children. By choosing her own path, she became the first woman in her family to receive a higher education and build a career in engineering. Today, she is helping ensure she will not be the last.

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Story

16 February 2026

“He suddenly smiled. That’s when we became truly happy”: healing childhood cancer in Uzbekistan

That was the beginning of their ordeal battling childhood cancer.A new WHO/Europe video follows Muhammadkhoja’s difficult path of healing and highlights Uzbekistan’s system of treating childhood cancer with quality-assured effective medicines, supported by WHO’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC) and the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines.An MRI changed everything“At one point, Muhammadkhoja couldn’t even climb the stairs. We thought he was just getting tired in the heat. He became weak and lost weight. We thought it was worms. We treated him for worms for 5 days. The doctor said the worms were gone. But his walking got even worse,” his mother recalls.Within days, doctors confirmed a large brain tumour, and urgent surgery was recommended. The family had to decide where their son would receive treatment. Medical centres abroad offered care, and after acquaintances offered accommodation during the operation and rehabilitation period, the family chose to proceed with surgery outside the country.The operation lasted 2.5 hours. “He didn’t speak for 20 days,” says his mother. “He didn’t smile. He was afraid to walk.”Then, just before returning home, while speaking with relatives online, he suddenly smiled.“That’s when we became truly happy,” recalls his mother.Today, Muhammadkhoja is recovering. After the surgery, he returned home and completed radio- and chemotherapy courses in Uzbekistan. His treatment followed a structured international protocol.Muhammadkhoja’s story is at the heart of a new WHO/Europe video highlighting how Uzbekistan is strengthening its childhood cancer care system – and how that system is built to support children like him.Childhood cancer is different – and curableThe types of cancer that occur in childhood are quite different from those in adulthood. Childhood cancers are closely connected to genetic factors and, unlike many adult cancers, are not directly associated with lifestyle or environmental risk factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption or unhealthy diets. Childhood cancer cannot be prevented, but it can be cured.Today, most childhood cancers are curable with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Yet survival rates vary dramatically across the WHO European Region and globally. In well-resourced health systems, survival exceeds 80%. In other settings, where diagnosis is delayed, access to medicines is limited and health systems are unequipped for complex cancer care, survival rates can be below 30%.The right policies and close collaboration with the international health-care community can make a great difference.To reduce the burden of childhood cancer, countries need rapid diagnostic pathways, trained specialists in paediatric oncology, up-to-date treatment protocols, continuity of care and reliable access to quality-assured medicines.Uzbekistan has been working to strengthen each of these pillars.Building a system that saves livesUzbekistan is a focal country of the GICC, and in 2024 it joined the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines.Through partnerships between WHO, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the United Nations Children’s Fund, the Pan-American Health Organization and national authorities, the country is building a more robust, sustainable childhood cancer care system.WHO/Europe has been working closely with the Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan to enhance treatment protocols and align them with international standards, creating a system that works for every child.Muhammadkhoja’s family had to travel abroad at the time of the surgery; but looking forward, the goal is to ensure that children can receive high-quality care closer to home in Uzbekistan.

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05 February 2026

Bringing clarity, precision, and hope to cancer care for the people of Uzbekistan

“It requires several critical stages: precise early detection, carefully planned treatment, and the ability to manage complex cases. Without the right tools, it is impossible to address all these stages properly”.Today, with new technologies installed at the centers across Uzbekistan, this entire pathway can be followed with evidence, precision, and a strong focus on patient needs. This transformation is part of a joint initiative by the Government of Uzbekistan, the Islamic Development Bank, and UNOPS, with a total value of USD 80 million. By 2026, the project aims to equip 14 hospitals across the country with advanced medical and radiological equipment, strengthening oncology services nationwide. To date, more than 1,700 units of equipment, worth USD 62 million, have been installed in all regions of Uzbekistan, bringing modern cancer care closer to patients.“These investments allowed us to introduce technologies that were not previously available in the country,” Dr. Izrailbekova says. “At our center in Tashkent, we are now using advanced systems that play a key role at different stages of cancer care: advanced diagnostic equipment, modern linear accelerators, and angiography.”Advanced diagnostics: Understanding the disease“For many patients, the most difficult part of a cancer diagnosis is uncertainty – understanding where the disease is, how advanced it is, and what comes next. Advanced diagnostic technologies have fundamentally changed this moment”, Dr. Izrailbekova explains. As part of the project, a set of modern diagnostic equipment was installed to strengthen cancer detection and decision-making across the country. This includes one PET-CT system, one SPECT-CT system, seven MRI units, and six multi-slice CT scanners installed in national and regional centers, with a total investment of USD 14.9 million. Together, these technologies allow doctors to assess both the structure and biological activity of disease, providing a much clearer picture of how cancer behaves in each individual patient.“Advanced diagnostics support accurate staging, help us understand whether treatment is working, and guide the planning of surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy. Instead of relying on indirect indicators, we can base decisions on real evidence”, she adds. “When I first heard the diagnosis, I was terrified,” Nazira recalls. She was diagnosed with stage II breast cancer. “My first thought was surgery”, she adds. Like many patients, Nazira associated cancer treatment with invasive procedures and uncertainty. However, diagnostic assessments allowed doctors to better understand the biological behavior of the cancer and showed that surgery was not immediately required.“This approach reduced physical trauma for our patient and ensured that treatment decisions were based on how the cancer was actually behaving, not assumptions,” explains Dr. Izrailbekova. “Now we use precise diagnostic tools, and we can tailor treatment to the patient – not the other way around.” “Today, I feel calmer,” Nazira says. “I am confident that my treatment is carefully thought through”, she adds with a smile. Linear accelerators: Treating the disease with precision “Radiotherapy is one of the most effective cancer treatments, but its success depends on precision”, explains Dr. Izrailbekova, as she walks through the radiotherapy department. Modern linear accelerators have changed how radiotherapy is delivered. They allow radiation to be directed precisely at the tumor, while protecting the healthy tissue around it. Through this joint initiative, the center received three modern linear accelerators, with a total value of USD 7.1 million, which are especially important when tumors are close to vital organs or have complex shapes.“Most importantly, it removes the need for the patient to travel abroad for treatment and allows receiving care that meets international standards”, she notes. “With such equipment, we deliver safer, more effective treatment with confidence”.Angiography: Managing complex cases through minimally invasive solutions“Some cancer cases are very complex,” explains Dr. Kamila. “They cannot be treated with surgery alone, and sometimes surgery itself can pose serious risks. That is where angiography becomes essential.” The project supported the installation of three angiography systems, including two in regional centers, with a total investment of USD 2.1 million. This equipment enables minimally invasive, image-guided treatment from inside the blood vessels, offering an entirely different approach to cancer care. Instead of operating directly on an organ, doctors can reach tumors through the vascular system, either cutting off its blood supply or delivering treatment directly to the affected area. “Angiography allows us to treat very complex cases in a controlled and gentle way,” says Dr. Izrailbekova. “It helps protect organs, reduce risks for patients, and offer effective treatment options even when surgery is not the best solution.” “When we have the right tools, we can focus on what matters most – the patient,” says Dr. Kamila Izrailbekova. By investing in advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, the project is strengthening national oncology services and expanding equitable access to high-quality cancer care across Uzbekistan.

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21 December 2025

From fear to gratitude at a maternity hospital in Uzbekistan

For Gulirano, behind the joy of seeing her baby for the first time was a sense of relief, following the anxiety of the final days before the birth.During the last of her prenatal visits, doctors at Tashkent’s Maternity Complex No. 7 had advised Gulirano to stay at the hospital because of her dangerously high blood pressure. “I didn’t fully grasp how serious it could become,” she said. “But when the contractions began, the fear became real. My blood pressure started rising again.”High blood pressure disorders in pregnancy are the world’s third leading cause of maternal death. Gulirano was placed on a motorized bed and connected to a machine that could continuously monitor her baby’s heart rate. “It was fast, quiet – but strong,” she described. “It calmed me. My baby was really there. Alive. Waiting for me.Modernizing maternity careThe equipment used to treat Gulirano had recently been supplied by UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. UNFPA has delivered more than 2,300 items of life-saving equipment to 230 maternity hospitals across Uzbekistan, including fetal heart monitors, operating tables and other obstetric essentials, all of which come with a two-year warranty and a two-year supply of spare parts and disposables. These upgrades are part of an effort launched in October 2023 by UNFPA, the Ministry of Health and other UN agencies to modernize the country’s maternal and newborn care system. Significant progress has been made, with the maternal mortality ratio decreasing by almost 7 per cent from 2023 to 2024, according to the latest government data. Newborn deaths also fell, while survival rates for babies with the lowest birthweights improved by five per cent in just two years.In addition to the modern equipment, Gulirano’s delivery was eased by the presence of Shoira, a midwife trained by UNFPA. “We breathed together, and I trusted her completely. She guided me during labour and everything went well.”But suddenly Gulirano noticed the doctors’ expressions change. They had detected a postpartum haemorrhage – severe bleeding after childbirth that is the leading cause of maternal death worldwide. Immediately, everyone in the room launched into action. “I was given anaesthesia – I don’t recall the exact medical details, but I do remember how swiftly they started the procedure,” said Gulirano. The bed was moved to position Gulirano for treatment, without needing to transfer her to a separate operating table: “Shoira later told me that those crucial minutes saved my life.”“I was not alone through this”From 2024 to 2025, UNFPA trained over 18,000 doctors, midwives and other healthcare providers across Uzbekistan, increasing their capacity to safely handle obstetric emergencies and save lives. After the doctors’ rapid response stopped the bleeding, Gulirano was able to hold her baby once more. Through tears, she breastfed her daughter for the first time. “Despite all my fears, I was not alone through this,” she told UNFPA. “My midwife and the doctors were with me all the time. I was crying not out of fear, but from deep gratitude.”Through supplies, training and essential equipment, UNFPA is committed to ensuring every woman can give birth safely and, like Gulirano, have a healthy journey into motherhood.

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Press Release

18 August 2026

UN General Assembly Advances Resolution to Strengthen the Role of Parliaments in Accelerating Social Development

Building on previous General Assembly resolutions on parliamentary engagement and sustainable development, the resolution reaffirms the commitments of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Copenhagen Declaration on Social Development and the Doha Political Declaration adopted at the Second World Summit for Social Development in 2025.Recognizing that poverty eradication, full and productive employment and decent work for all, and social integration remain the three interconnected pillars of social development, the resolution emphasizes that renewed multilateral cooperation and effective national institutions are essential to achieving these objectives. It also reaffirms the Commission for Social Development as the principal intergovernmental body responsible for following up on global social development commitments, including the outcomes of the Doha Summit, thereby reinforcing its central role in reviewing progress on the implementation of the Doha Political Declaration.The resolution calls for greater parliamentary engagement in national strategies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, strengthen transparency and accountability, and ensure that social development policies respond to the needs of all people, leaving no one behind.Recognizing the importance of inclusive governance, the resolution underscores the need for the full, equal and meaningful participation of women in parliaments, including in leadership positions, and encourages greater engagement of young people in parliamentary processes related to sustainable development. It also acknowledges the transformative potential of digital technologies and artificial intelligence while stressing the importance of bridging digital divides and ensuring that technological advances contribute to social development in an inclusive, safe and equitable manner.By strengthening collaboration between parliaments, governments and the United Nations, the Uzbekistan-led resolution seeks to reinforce democratic governance, translate global social development commitments into national legislation, oversight and accountability, and advance collective efforts to build more inclusive, resilient and equitable societies for present and future generations.

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Press Release

17 August 2026

New agreement advances healthcare infrastructure in Kashkadarya Region

The Enhancing Healthcare Services in Kashkadarya Region Project is part of the Government of Uzbekistan’s broader healthcare modernization agenda and is being implemented under Presidential Resolution No. 67 of February 2024, which mandates the construction and equipping of new multidisciplinary hospitals in Karshi and Beshkent. Signed on 7 August 2026, the agreement covers Output 2 of the project, which focuses on strengthening healthcare infrastructure in Beshkent to better respond to the needs of local communities. This component is funded by ADFD.Two other components of the project were signed in November 2025 and implementation began on 4 November 2025:Output 1: Strengthened healthcare infrastructure in Karshi City and the wider Kashkadarya Region, funded by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB);Output 3: Advancement of telehealth facilities across the Kashkadarya Region, also funded by IsDB.Together, the three outputs form an overall project with a total budget of approximately USD 127.1 million, including USD 84.6 million in IsDB financing and USD 42.5 million in ADFD financing.Under the newly signed ADFD-funded component, a new 300-bed multidisciplinary hospital will be constructed in Beshkent, replacing existing infrastructure that does not meet current structural, seismic, accessibility and healthcare requirements. The new facility will provide services including maternity, pediatrics, surgery, infectious diseases, pathology and outpatient care.The project builds on the Delivering Infrastructure Design Project, a predecessor phase funded by the Fund for Reconstruction and Development of Uzbekistan (FRDU) with USD 11.3 million and previously implemented by UNOPS at the request of the Government. Following pre-feasibility assessments completed in February 2024, UNOPS carried out feasibility studies and developed architectural and engineering designs for the new hospitals in Karshi and Beshkent. The work also included technical assessments, equipment planning, environmental and social studies, quality assurance and preparatory site works, including demolition at the Beshkent site.The Ministry of Health and other national partners are leading the initiative in line with Uzbekistan’s healthcare reform priorities, while UNOPS provides technical support for infrastructure delivery, procurement and project implementation.The overall project aims to improve and expand equitable access to quality medical services in Kashkadarya Region through modern healthcare infrastructure, medical equipment and telehealth solutions.ENDSNotes to the editors: Press contact details:Nigina Sodikova, Communications Associate, UNOPS Office in UzbekistanPhone: +99895 155 04 68, email: niginas@unops.orgAbout UNOPSUNOPS offers practical solutions across peace and security, humanitarian and development operations. We help the United Nations, governments and other partners to manage projects, and deliver sustainable infrastructure and procurement across the world. Read more: www.unops.org.

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Press Release

30 July 2026

How an Initiative Reaching Over 100,000 Youth Delivered Impact

The meeting focused primarily on the practical impact of the programme. According to presented data, the initiative laid the foundation for a sustainable national system designed to protect youth from cybercrime, online fraud, and digital violence. Implemented with support from the UN Trust Fund for Human Security, the project’s total budget stood at USD 341,100 USD.The key metrics highlighted at the event clearly reflect the program’s wide reach:Over 100,000 citizens directly and indirectly benefited from the programme's opportunities.More than 150 law enforcement officers, educators, and community (mahalla) leaders completed specialized training.2 institutional centers were established.6 interactive online learning modules and 7 specialized video lessons were developed.16 socially significant videos were produced.50 UN Volunteers were engaged to boost digital security advocacy among youth.More than 470 young people participated in Model UN simulations.Under the programme, a cybersecurity resource and methodological center was launched in Uzbekistan, alongside a distance-learning platform dedicated to creating a safe digital environment for youth. The online courses cover 29 topics ranging from password security to AI-driven fraud schemes. In addition, a pilot youth cybercrime prevention center was commissioned in Tashkent's Chilanzar district.At the same time, international training programmes were organized for law enforcement agencies, key UN practical manuals were adapted into Uzbek and Russian, and the first comprehensive national study on technology-facilitated gender-based violence was completed.

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Press Release

03 June 2026

Inclusive education through the eyes of children

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in partnership with the Ministry of Preschool and School Education and the National Agency for Social Protection/International Inclusive Hub, showcase emerging promising and good practice on inclusive education from across Uzbekistan, as they launch a national exhibition titled “My School for Everyone.”The exhibition presents drawings, essays, poems and photograph and video images from all regions of Uzbekistan reflecting perspectives of children on education and aspirations for accessible and supportive learning environments. “Through children’s artwork we are reminded that inclusive education is not simply an education issue. It is about dignity, equality, opportunity, and the future we want to build together”, said Regina Castillo, UNICEF Representative in Uzbekistan. “At UNICEF, we strongly believe that inclusive education is one of the most powerful drivers of quality education systems. When schools become inclusive, they become better for every child. They become more child-centered, more flexible, more innovative, and more responsive to learning needs of all children”, she added.Uzbekistan is taking important steps to advance inclusive education, enabling all children, including children with disabilities, to participate in quality school and preschool education through strengthened capacity of mainstream institutions. However, many children in the country continue to face barriers to accessing and fully participating in learning.Out of an estimated 122,300 children with disabilities in Uzbekistan, only 5,999 are enrolled in mainstream schools—representing fewer than 5 out of every 100 children. This gap highlights the urgent need to transform education systems and societal attitudes so that all children—regardless of ability—have equal opportunities to learn and grow.Besides removing physical barriers, there is a need to shift societal perceptions from viewing disability through a medical or charity lens, to focusing on rights of children with disabilities. Evidence from the 50 model schools, which UNICEF supports through the ISHONCH 2030 initiative, shows that:43% of parents and 32% of teachers view mainstream public schools and preschools as the best educational setting for children with disabilities;18 % parents and 19 % of teachers support specialized schools for children with disabilities;Only 8% of parents and 15% of teachers consider home-based education as the preferred option.These findings highlight growing confidence in inclusive, community-based schools and reinforce the need to expand quality, accessible, child-centered learning opportunities close to home. Modeling schools demonstrate how inclusive education can work in practice through integrating inclusive pedagogy and differentiated teaching, assistive technologies and adaptive learning materials, introducing accessible infrastructure and child-friendly environments. Through showcasing children’s perspectives and community stories, the exhibition aims to raise public awareness about inclusive education, promote positive attitudes toward diversity and inclusion, highlight progress, and encourage collective action across government, communities, and partners.The exhibition is organized within the framework of the SMART-ED Project funded by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the Arab Coordination Group (ACG), and the Global Partnership for Education (GPE). It will be open for all visitors till 14 June 2026 at the Ikuo Hirayama Cultural Caravanserai.Address: 37A, Yusuf Khos Khodzhib Street (Landmark: Higher School of Choreography, near the Kosmonavtlar metro station).

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Press Release

13 May 2026

UNCCD Press Release Silk Road Caravan sets out across Eurasia to champion rangelands and pastoralists

Bonn/Antalya, 13 May 2026 — The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) today launched the Silk Road Caravan in Türkiye, kicking off a journey across Eurasian countries to spotlight rangelands and pastoralist communities on the road from the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) in Riyadh to COP17 in Ulaanbaatar in August 2026. Supporting the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026, the initiative will highlight the vital role of rangelands in sustaining food and water security, climate stability and economic resilience. It will also champion pastoralism as one of the most sustainable, yet underappreciated, livelihoods — especially in drylands, which make up most of the world’s rangelands and are among the most vulnerable to land degradation. Following the historic Silk Road, the caravan will bring together pastoralists from various countries, alongside filmmakers and experts, on a unique storytelling journey. Travelling across steppes, deserts, and highland pastures, they will engage with local communities to document solutions rooted in both traditional knowledge and the latest science — sharing these stories with a global audience through social media, the silkroadcaravan.org website and a long-form documentary. “Rangelands cover more than half of the Earth’s land surface and support billions of people, yet in some regions are disappearing faster than rainforests. The Silk Road Caravan brings these landscapes and their stewards to the forefront of global attention, as we move from UNCCD COP16 in Riyadh to COP17 in Ulaanbaatar with a shared responsibility to restore land, build drought resilience and secure our common future,” said UNCCD Executive Secretary Yasmine Fouad during the launch ceremony in Antalya, Türkiye, alongside representatives of pastoralist communities, participating countries and partners. As host of the Caravan’s launch, Deputy Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change of Türkiye Hasan Suver stated: “This meaningful and symbolic journey, stretching from Türkiye to Mongolia, represents a major awareness-raising initiative aimed at promoting the protection of rangelands, sustainable pastoralist livelihoods, and holistic approaches to land management. Beginning in Erzurum on 6 May and continuing through Malatya and Gaziantep before reaching Antalya, the journey highlights the value of rangeland ecosystems across the diverse geographies of our country. Through the field visits, filming, interviews, and meetings with local communities carried out along the way, we have once again seen that rangeland ecosystems are not only natural resources, but also an essential part of cultural heritage, economic resilience, and social sustainability.” UNCCD Goodwill Ambassador Inna Modja, artist and singer from Mali, who has travelled with the Silk Road Caravan over 1,000 km across Türkiye, said: “I am honoured to join an initiative that brings together cultures, traditions and knowledge shaped by the land. Along this journey, we will carry the voices of pastoral communities across regions, revealing how deeply people and land are connected. I believe the Silk Road Caravan will be a powerful contribution to the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026, helping ensure these communities and landscapes are truly seen, heard and valued.” Following Türkiye, the Silk Road Caravan will traverse several Eurasian countries, including China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Russia and Uzbekistan.In addition, countries around the world are encouraged to organize symbolic events in the spirit of the Silk Road Caravan on Desertification and Drought Day, to be observed globally on 17 June under the theme ‘Rangelands: Recognize. Respect. Restore.”’The Caravan's journey will culminate at the UNCCD COP17, which is taking place in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from 17-28 August 2026. The Eurasian rangelands (steppes) stretch over 8,000 kilometres from the Black Sea to the Mongolian Plateau and Northeast China, forming the world’s largest contiguous area of grazing land. Comprising one-quarter of global rangelands and over six per cent of the Earth’s total surface area, they are characterized by an arid to semi-arid climate and vast open spaces divided by mountain ranges, where livelihoods are largely dependent on pastoralism. Road from Riyadh to Ulaanbaatar Silk Road Caravan builds on the momentum created in 2024 at UNCCD COP16 Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where countries adopted the Convention’s first-ever decision on rangelands. The decision urges Parties to prioritize policies and investments for the sustainable management of rangelands — halting their indiscriminate conversion, overexploitation, and fragmentation as well as the marginalization of pastoralists in decisions on land management and tenure security. The journey reflects the continued engagement of the COP16 Presidency, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, whose leadership has helped elevate land and drought as global priorities. “COP16 marked an important step forward, with countries agreeing for the first time on a dedicated decision to support the sustainable management of rangelands. As COP16 Presidency, we remain committed to maintaining this momentum — working with partners to translate commitments into coordinated action that strengthens resilience and supports livelihoods in rangelands and beyond,” said Ahmed Saleh Al-Ayada, CEO of the Saudi National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification. UNCCD COP17 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, will provide the most significant opportunity to date to advance international cooperation on sustainable rangeland management and strengthen frameworks for inclusive governance, with a focus on aligning investments, policies and practices to deliver results at scale. “We look forward to welcoming the Silk Road Caravan to Ulaanbaatar for COP17, where the voices, experiences and solutions gathered along this journey will help shape global policy discussions. Mongolia is committed to delivering strong outcomes for rangelands — advancing their sustainable management, strengthening the role of pastoral communities, and ensuring decision-makers fully recognize the value of these ecosystems and the people who steward them,” said Uyangaa Enkhtur, Officer at Livestock, Animal Genetics, Resource Policy Implementation and Coordination Department, Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry of Mongolia. Rangelands are among the world’s most vital yet undervalued ecosystems, supporting around two billion people and providing one-sixth of global food supply as well as most livestock feed. They are also home to a rich diversity of cultures and biodiversity, including nearly a quarter of the world’s languages. Yet up to half of these landscapes are already degraded or at risk, with declining soil fertility, capacity for water retention and carbon storage undermining their productivity and resilience. More information about the Silk Road Caravan: silkroadcaravan.org More information about rangelands in Eurasia, Southern Africa and South America: Communal management of rangelands Community-based natural resources management in Southern Africa Land use change and rangeland degradation: Mobile pastoralism and silvopastoral solutions in South America Rangeland health and drought resilience: The promise of sustainable pastoralism in Eurasia For media enquiries For accreditation, interview requests, or to join part of the journey, please contact the UNCCD Press Office: press@unccd.int Photos and videos from the journey are available from: https://trello.com/b/cnDvxXv9/silk-road-caravan For media enquiries UNCCD Press Office: press@unccd.int About UNCCD  The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is the global vision and voice for land. We unite governments, scientists, policymakers, private sector and communities around a shared vision and global action to restore and manage the world’s land for the sustainability of humanity and the planet. Much more than an international treaty signed by 197 Parties, UNCCD is a multilateral commitment to mitigating today’s impacts of land degradation and advancing tomorrow’s land stewardship in order to provide food, water, shelter and economic opportunity to all people in an equitable and inclusive manner. About UNCCD COP17 The seventeenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) will be held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from 17–28 August 2026 under the theme ‘Restoring Land, Restoring Hope.’ Delegates from UNCCD’s 197 Parties will join leaders from government, business, civil society, scientists, Indigenous Peoples and local communities to advance action for healthy land as a cornerstone of global resilience, stability and prosperity. As the first of the three Rio Conventions COPs —on land, biodiversity and climate— meeting this year, UNCCD COP17 will set the tone for the rest of 2026 and beyond.

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