Latest
Speech
25 November 2023
Message of the Secretary General for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
Learn more
Press Release
24 November 2023
Aral Sea MPHSTF announced the 4th Call for Proposals
Learn more
Press Release
14 November 2023
Sand and dust storm frequency increasing in many world regions, UN warns
Learn more
Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals 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:
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.
1 of 4

Photo
23 January 2023
SDG dialogues at the Diplomat International School
The students of International Diplomat School were introduced the concept of Sustainable Development Goals on 24 October and 29 November 2022
1 of 4
https://www.flickr.com/photos/188395718@N07/albums/72177720304465052
Photo
23 January 2023
Regional SDG dialogues 2022
The Regional SDG dialogues were held in November and December in Urgench, Bukhara and Andijan
1 of 4
https://www.flickr.com/photos/188395718@N07/albums/72177720304462221
Publication
25 August 2022
Joint UN-Government Steering Committee and Partners' Meeting 2022
This presentation highlights key results of development cooperation between the UN and Government for 2022; informs about planned results of the UN Country Team and endorses the Joint Workplans for 2023-2025; reviews and endorses the implementation architecture of the Cooperation Framework (Results Groups, Technical Groups); and reviews Multi-Year Funding framework of the Cooperation Framework, including funding gaps and priorities for resource mobilization.
1 of 4

Story
08 November 2023
Strengthening primary healthcare to rescue our failing health systems
This includes severe and persistent health workforce shortages, which in turn are leading to industrial action and disruptions right across Europe and Central Asia; a rapidly ageing population placing a huge strain on health systems; backlogs on everything from cancer screenings to surgeries; disruptions to medicines and vaccines supply chains in the wake of the pandemic. All the while the cost of delivering quality healthcare keeps increasing, especially for the most vulnerable, while health workers struggle to make ends meet.
Not only is this unacceptable, it’s also unsustainable. The historic post-war health gains made across the European Region over the past 75 years, when the World Health Organization was born, are being reversed right before our eyes. It’s time for a rethink and a reset, and a big part of the solution lies in elevating primary healthcare (PHC) to its rightful place within our health systems: at the top, not the bottom.
Often overlooked in favour of more glamorous and high-tech medical advancements, PHC serves as the foundation upon which resilient and flourishing communities are built. If our health system was a tree, PHC would be its roots. At its heart, it’s about the people – the doctors, nurses, therapists – who remain with you throughout your life, through complex illnesses, in good times and bad, they know you and your community intimately. They provide the kind of personal care and attention that is impossible to provide in hospitals where beds are at a premium. Crucially, they can help keep you out of hospital to begin with.
We have long known the benefits of investing in PHC. We know it is the most cost-effective way to prevent the escalation of health issues, reducing the need for expensive hospitalizations and intensive treatments. By identifying and addressing health problems at an early stage, in the community, PHC can save both lives and money. It is an investment that pays dividends by improving overall health while curbing healthcare expenses. Yet PHC remains unfairly sidelined across the board in the European Region, in high-income and low-income countries alike. Which begs the question, why?
I believe it’s because large-scale investments into strengthening PHC demands political buy-in and rebalancing incentives in the health care economy, which in turn requires a solid business case for using public money and shifting the emphasis of investment. And while we know PHC to be cost-effective, the value it produces for our communities and societies is extremely difficult to measure and quantify, because it’s not just about gains made in biological life-years. It’s also about better mental and social well-being which leads to thriving communities.
How can you measure the value of a relationship between doctor and patient and their families over the course of a lifetime? How can you quantify the benefits of mental health care in the community? How can you put a value on emotional and social support for victims of violence? It’s much easier to make the business case for a sparkling new hospital, of bricks and mortar, with a certain number of beds and turnover of patients.
But herein lies the problem. If our health systems are to emerge from the myriad challenges they face, stronger and fitter for the 21st century, we need to radically shift our mindset, from a top-down to a bottom-up approach; from a physician-led to a team-based approach; from a paternalistic to a pluralistic and inclusive approach; from a health-for-the-few to a health-for-all approach, the vision that guides WHO.
I am calling for nothing less than wholesale transformation of the way everyone involved in the health sector – policymakers, health workers, educators, suppliers, distributors, producers, administrators, and managers – think about healthcare.
My request to you all is that with every decision you make, stop, and ask yourself: am I promoting the strengthening of PHC? Am I contributing towards health equity and inclusion? Am I leaving anyone behind? Am I promoting a PHC-led health system or is PHC doomed to be siloed and left to compete with other programmes time and time again.
Many countries across the WHO European Region, covering 53 Member States in Europe and Central Asia, have already started on their transformative PHC journeys, and are sharing lessons with others, seeing what works and what doesn’t. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to PHC, and WHO/Europe is playing a leading role in bringing countries and policymakers together to bring ideas and innovations to life.
In Sweden for example, digital health tools are being deployed to reach far-flung remote and rural communities. In Kazakhstan, PHC teams now include mental health specialists and social workers accessible for all reducing the need for expensive travel and specialist visits. In Kyrgyzstan, a new pay-for-performance system is attracting more doctors into PHC. Ireland was one of the first countries in our region to strengthen occupational health and wellbeing structures for health workers to avoid burnout. In Tajikistan, a comprehensive health labour market analysis has helped identify PHC challenges, with concrete steps taken to improve the recruitment and retention of doctors in rural areas.
Another current theme is trust – or the lack thereof. During the pandemic, the foundation of trust established through strong PHC providers played a crucial role in disseminating accurate information and ensuring public compliance with safety measures. It comes as no surprise then, that the countries with strong PHC rooted in communities were the ones who fared better during the pandemic.
Simply put, healthy and happy societies are more resilient, more productive, and more cohesive. When individuals and communities have access to preventive care and early interventions without financial hardship, they can lead fuller lives, contribute to society, and unleash their potential.
In the coming days, I will join health leaders, practitioners, and policymakers in the Kazakh capital Astana to mark 45 years since the Alma-Ata Declaration was signed. This landmark document was a major milestone of the 20th century in the field of public health because it identified PHC as the key to the attainment of health for all, globally. Countries committed to investing in PHC on the long road towards universal health coverage. Now, nearly half a century later, with the world possibly more polarized and more unequal than ever, PHC couldn’t be more relevant.
As we look to the future, it’s time to reframe health.
PHC is not an expenditure or a nice-to-have, but a long-term investment in the wellbeing of our communities, an investment that yields substantial returns in terms of public health, economic stability, and social equity, however hard they are to measure.
Let us therefore recognize that reframing our health systems with a PHC lens is not just a choice; it’s a moral obligation, a prerequisite to the kind of society in which we all aspire to live – a society grounded in trust and empathy, where health and happiness flourish for all.
Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe.
1 of 5

Story
12 September 2023
Driving Sustainable Development forward in Uzbekistan: UNOPS’ commitment under the SDGs spotlight
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) - a beacon of hope in our complex world - are a set of 17 ambitious targeted goals adopted by the United Nations Member States in 2015. These goals, spanning from eradicating poverty and reducing inequality to ensuring environmental sustainability, collectively paint a vision for a more equitable, prosperous, and sustainable future.
Uzbekistan, recognizing the importance of these goals, has confirmed its commitment to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through an inclusive, multi-stakeholder partnership approach. In this journey towards sustainable development, UNOPS plays a pivotal role, working closely with the Government of Uzbekistan and other UN agencies, to turn these goals into concrete results.
The significance of the projects, implemented by UNOPS in Uzbekistan, are deeply rooted in evolving health challenges faced in the country - the persistence of infectious diseases, exacerbated by the recent COVID-19 pandemic, as well as increasing prevalence of cancer cases among the population - necessitates a dynamic approach to healthcare.
Notably, UNOPS’ endeavor to enhance the healthcare system in Uzbekistan centrally focuses on SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. By procuring advanced medical equipment and improving the infrastructure of health facilities, UNOPS aims to provide better access to quality healthcare services. However, as the SDGs are interconnected and interlinked, progress in one goal often impacts progress in others.
By enhancing the country's medical facilities capacity and healthcare infrastructure, the project contributes to the mission of SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure). UNOPS is committed to promoting and integrating sustainability and resilience into infrastructure development. By emphasizing green, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, UNOPS ensures that projects have a lasting positive impact on the environment and the communities they serve.
To add, the projects’ assessment integrates environmental considerations, reflecting UNOPS’ commitment to environmental protection. By incorporating environmentally friendly measures, such as promoting efficient water usage, advocating for sustainable labware choices, and embracing sustainable lab design, UNOPS demonstrates not only its dedication to the protection of the environment but also paves the way for a greener future, where sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand.
Inclusivity is a fundamental principle of the SDGs, and UNOPS is dedicated to ensuring that projects benefit all segments of the population. In the context of healthcare projects, it reflects the commitment to inclusivity and equitable access to quality healthcare services for both workers and communities, regardless of their gender, background or location.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of health workers is another aspect of the project's commitment and impact that UNOPS pays attention to during project implementation. Measuring regular medical testing, provision of personal protective equipment, establishment of sex-segregated facilities, and capacity-building staff training enhances the welfare of health workers and creates a supportive environment for all personnel involved. UNOPS is also dedicated to building local capacity and skills. This commitment is particularly important in projects with healthcare infrastructure development, where local healthcare professionals will benefit from training and capacity-building programs conducted by UNOPS.
Implementing projects on behalf of its partners, UNOPS is committed to accountability and transparency in its operations. This commitment ensures that project resources are used effectively and project results are accountable to stakeholders. It fosters trust and confidence in the projects' impact.
Collaboration is a core value of UNOPS. Beside working closely with governments, international organizations, and local stakeholders, UNOPS leverages its international expertise in project implementation, fostering synergy in achieving the goals. By working collectively towards shared objectives, the project ensures a more holistic and impactful approach to a healthier and more sustainable future for Uzbekistan.
The SDGs are a global commitment that demands a united effort. For UNOPS, they serve as a guiding light, a common purpose, and a shared responsibility. Implementing projects in Uzbekistan and around the world, UNOPS aligns its expertise, and resources with the SDGs, actively contributing to their achievement.
As we stand on the threshold of the 2030 deadline for the SDGs with just seven years remaining, it is our collective duty to act decisively, building on these foundations to create a world that truly embodies the spirit of the Sustainable Development Goals.
1 of 5

Story
17 May 2023
How the sweet sound of buzzing bees changed the tune of one Uzbek woman’s life
Morning breaks in the village Durmon, a quiet hamlet in the Bukhara region of southern Uzbekistan. There is no bustle of a big city. The only sounds are of chirping of birds and the humming of peaceful nature.
This is the setting for an ordinary day in the life of Gulhayo Khaydarova, a 35-year-old native of Durmon. She begins her work even before the sun rises, like her grandmothers and great-grandmothers used to do before her.
Sweep the yard; milk the cow; feed the chickens: this is Gulhayo’s to-do list for the morning. She then cooks breakfast and sends the children, two boys, off to school.
After the children leave, it's time to turn to her other job. Though she would never have guessed it before, Gulhayo has been in beekeeping for many years now, and the natural honey she produces is famous throughout the village.
In the Khaydarov family, the traditions and secrets of beekeeping are passed down from generation to generation. Her father-in-law, Ravshan, knows this business inside and out.
It used to be that Gulhayo would watch from a safe distance while her father-in-law and her husband worked. She was too afraid to even approach the bees. Then one day, interest arose. She smiles remembering how her head spun with excitement the first time she put on a protective suit and opened the bee box on her own.
Today Gulhayo is an experienced beekeeper. She first cleans the hives and then inspects them for any symptoms of diseases or pest infestations. In this field, it is important to check the hives regularly because early detection improves the chances of keeping the bees healthy.
When examining bee colonies, she can see with a naked eye the presence and state of a queen in the hive. She can tell whether the transplanted queen has been accepted by the bees or whether the colony is at risk of illness. She knows if there is enough food in the frame and whether the bees are healthy. Gulhayo has been following this daily routine for 14 years.
One day like any other, employees of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) came to Gulhayo's house, accompanied by government representatives. After a socioeconomic survey conducted by the project team, the Khaydarov family was selected to participate in the FAO project, Central Asian Desert Initiative (CADI).
Last winter the Khaydarovs suffered great losses — a significant part of the bee colonies could not endure the severe weather conditions and died from the cold. Winter is always a risk for bees. Even the most experienced beekeepers can lose dozens of hives over the winter.
To compensate for their losses over the winter, FAO provided the family with modern beekeeping equipment, such as honey extractors, and 20 new hives.
With this support, the Khaydarov family has been able to expand their apiary and create about 40 new bee colonies. In addition to the increased production, this modern equipment has accelerated the process of obtaining honey and the additional honey extractors mean that three people can work at once. Increased production means better income and providing a more sustainable livelihood for the household.
Gulhayo is glad that she can contribute to the family budget. With the first profits, she bought new school supplies and school clothes for her children. Her additional free time meant she also had moments to help her sons with their homework.
The CADI project conserves and ensures the sustainable use of temperate deserts, like those in Uzbekistan, which are unique ecosystems of global importance. Funded by the German government, the project was implemented by FAO, the University of Greifswald and the Michael Succow Foundation in Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
The same equipment that the Khaydarov family received was also given to other households in the area. And along with beekeeping equipment, local households received other livelihood support, such as sewing machines, lockers, wool processing equipment, milk separators, as well as seeds and seedlings of drought-resistant crops.
In addition, during its implementation, the CADI project organized an extensive training programme on growing crops, developing various crafts, creating nurseries in greenhouses, processing milk and other animal products and developing beekeeping.
At these Farmer Field Schools, Gulhayo learned best practices of effective modern processes for the production of honey and other bee products. Longtime beekeepers now combine traditional methods of honey production with modern expertise, and increased apiculture production provides households with additional sustainable income. Most importantly, the project ensures that both women and men equally benefit from the training and equipment.
It is dinner time and Gulhayo’s family gathers to dine at one large table. Among the dishes on the table, honey takes a special place. Ecological, natural, obtained by their own labor. Gulhayo pours tea in traditional Uzbek cups called piala and hands them out to her family members.
Tomorrow will be a new day, full of chores. But for now, Gulhayo rests with her mug of tea in her cozy world, a rural life surrounded by the beauty of nature and the sweet sound of bees.
1 of 5
Story
02 June 2023
Keeping Commitments and the Future in Focus: UNOPS marks World Environment Day in Uzbekistan
This year, UNOPS is actively participating in marking this important day by showcasing its commitment to environmental preservation through various initiatives and projects in Uzbekistan.
Through the assessment mission commenced within the project to enhance Uzbekistan’s resilience to the COVID-19 pandemic and other epidemics by equipping and refurbishing the national laboratory system, UNOPS not only aimed to gather valuable insights but also utilized this opportunity to showcase their actions aligned with environmental protection. This article highlights the initiatives undertaken by UNOPS in Uzbekistan, demonstrating their commitment to creating a greener future.
Sustainable Lab Design for a Greener Future
In the concept stage of projects, UNOPS places great importance on sustainable lab design, which forms the foundation for future developments. By embracing eco-friendly concepts, UNOPS reduces the carbon footprint of lab facilities: renewable energy sources such as solar panels result in reduced energy usage and emissions; low-energy lighting and energy-efficient lab equipment further contribute to a sustainable approach without compromising performance. Furthermore, UNOPS ensures healthy indoor air quality by incorporating natural ventilation systems, minimizing the need for energy-intensive air conditioning.
‘Intelligent building automation’ systems play a crucial role in optimizing energy usage by regulating temperature, lighting, and ventilation based on occupancy, without compromising the labs' functionality. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also inspires others to adopt similar measures, fostering a more sustainable and efficient environment for lab staff.
In addition, recognizing the global water shortage crisis, UNOPS has been actively advocating for water conservation solutions, including low-flow faucets, greywater systems (redirecting wastewater), and rainwater harvesting to reduce water usage.
Procurement with Sustainability in Mind
The procurement aspect of the mission aligns with UNOPS' commitment to sustainable procurement. UNOPS considers environmental factors when selecting medical equipment for the laboratories. This includes assessing the energy efficiency of the equipment, the materials used, and the disposal methods. UNOPS also prioritizes suppliers that provide sustainable and environmentally friendly products.
In addition, to ensure long-term sustainability and efficiency in the intervention, UNOPS recommends a comprehensive procurement process that extends beyond transactional activities. By including related services focused on enhancing the sustainability of projects, optimizing financial resources, and improving local capacities, UNOPS aims to maximize the positive impact on the environment and the community. These services encompass protocols for entry, installation, commissioning, training, and reception of procured technology, fostering a holistic approach to sustainable development.
UNOPS also promotes the use of sustainable materials in its procurement activities, such as sustainable material selection, utilizing recycled or repurposed materials with a low carbon footprint, which further contributes to eco-conscious lab design. Therefore, UNOPS encourages suppliers to provide information on the environmental attributes of their products, such as certifications for sustainable sourcing or eco-labels.
Balancing Safety and Sustainability: Single use Labware
Aligning with our commitment towards sustainability and environmental protection, UNOPS recommends the transition from reusable labware to single use alternatives. This shift may not appear sustainable at first glance, however, manual reprocessing of reusable labware demands planning, conscious execution, and diligent risk control to ensure the well-being of personnel throughout the entire process. It entails a series of steps, including initial cleaning, neutralization, rinsing, disinfection, and sterilization, which, unfortunately, consumes significant amounts of water and chemicals and generates a substantial environmental footprint. In addition, it puts the safety of personnel at risk. By embracing single-use labware, laboratories can significantly reduce their chemical and water consumption that minimize environmental impact, and safeguard the well-being of personnel. Therefore, UNOPS emphasizes the importance of making informed decisions during the feasibility study, considering the balance between contamination risks and environmental protection.
By incorporating environmentally friendly measures, such as promoting efficient water usage, advocating for sustainable labware choices, prioritizing green procurement, and embracing sustainable lab design, UNOPS demonstrates not only its dedication to the protection of the environment but also paves the way for a greener future, where sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand. And today, marking World Environment Day, UNOPS reaffirms its dedication to protecting the environment through its initiatives in Uzbekistan.
1 of 5
Story
01 June 2023
"Be the change you wish to see": the (extra)ordinary story of a HIV+ girl in Uzbekistan
“I feel that it's not me who has changed more, but the people around me. In a positive way, of course”answered Elina when she was asked about how her life changed after her TV appearance in a popular TV show in Uzbekistan.
"Be the change you wish to see in the world", once Mahatma Gandhi said, and changes can come from brave decisions, as the one made by Elina, disclosing her HIV status during the castings for the show.
“I disclosed my status right at the casting because the project lasted for several months, and I needed to take medicine daily. I made the decision to be honest and mustered up the courage. I thought they wouldn't accept me, but I passed the casting" she explained.
Elina is a second-year student in the Faculty of Agricultural Economics at Tashkent State Agrarian University in Uzbekistan. Having grown up in an orphanage she discovered her status as a child. She was the first child living with HIV in Uzbekistan to start antiretroviral (ARV) therapy in 2006 and the first child to be abandoned by her parents as a consequence of her status. Her childhood, due to the stigmatization faced by people living with HIV, was not easy.
“Children living with HIV, globally and in Uzbekistan, can be at higher risk of separation from their families and placement into alternative care. They are at risk of being abandoned by their parents due to stigma and discrimination prevailing in society, and thus some families place them into institutions simply because of their HIV status. Growing up in institutional care has a detrimental impact on children’s wellbeing and it adversely affects children’s health, development, and further reintegration into society” said Antonia Luedeke, Child Protection Chief at UNICEF Uzbekistan.
Throughout the TV show, Elina shared her experiences of being an orphan and living with HIV.
"When the TV episode aired, I started contemplating how people would perceive me, what they would say, and how they would react,” she recalled. “Psychologists were working with us during the project, which made it easier for me to handle the pressure."
From the end of the show, Elina’s personal Instagram account saw an outstanding growth in followers, and she started receiving messages from people living with HIV, thanking for her support and bravery.
"I am grateful for the trust they place in me... As the TV show is watched in neighboring countries, I also get messages from people in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan," Elina said.
For Elina, the daycare center for children and families affected by HIV played a crucial role. It provided a safe haven, support, and guidance throughout her childhood and teenage years. First day-care center for children and families affected by HIV opened in 2008 in Tashkent: the center is one of the nine daycare centers opened in 8 regions of Uzbekistan. From that moment, more than 6000 HIV+ children got support through their journey as children first, and then as teenagers living with HIV.
In many cases, children and adolescents living with HIV lack support from their families.
“I have talked to several adolescents living with HIV and their mothers, and I have heard many stories of stigma and discrimination. Very often only the child and the mother know of the child’s HIV status. In one case the grandparents found out and they didn’t want the child and her parents to live in the same house anymore. In several other cases children felt discriminated against in schools once their HIV status became known to teachers and other children. Very often stigma and discrimination are closely linked to a lack of knowledge of what HIV and AIDS exactly are” said Antonia Luedeke, Child Protection Chief at UNICEF Uzbekistan.
The daycare center of Tashkent opened a support group as soon as it was identified the need of supporting teenagers not only through professional consultations but also with the organization of masterclasses in different subjects, from languages to handicrafts. The objective of these activities is giving youngsters a set of skills that could be used in daily life, as the organization of handicraft masterclasses, that were aimed to provide them with helpful knowledge in order to reach economic independence. Thanks to these masterclasses, some girls decided to open their own little businesses: now, they started to teach the younger ones, establishing a spontaneous chain of solidarity aimed to help each other over time.
The success of these initiatives highlights the importance of creating more adolescent-friendly health and social protection services, accessible at community level and inclusive for the most vulnerable adolescents living with HIV.
Elina keeps visiting the center, bringing children from the orphanage she grew up in, showing them the power of a community: she knows how being supportless feels, and she is aware that being among peers with shared experiences could change a lot in the sphere of self-perception.
“I know how self-acceptance is important. Supporting people and enabling them to get the right information about HIV, makes me feel that I am doing the right thing. I feel blessed and enriched” she said.
Elina remains optimistic about changing societal attitudes towards HIV. She believes that with the right information and education, people can overcome their fears and stigmas.
“The HIV epidemic in Uzbekistan continues to be a pressing issue, with thousands of new cases registered annually. However, Elina's story inspires hope and serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of individuals living with HIV. By sharing her journey, she raises awareness, fights stigma, and encourages others to join the cause of creating a more inclusive and accepting society.” – said Charos Maksudova, UNAIDS Country Director in Uzbekistan.
Written by Amal Santini and Dilnoza Sametdinova.
1 of 5
Press Release
24 November 2023
Aral Sea MPHSTF announced the 4th Call for Proposals
About the MPHSTF
The UN Multi-Partner Human Security Trust Fund for the Aral Sea region in Uzbekistan (MPHSTF), officially launched on the margins of the 73rd UN General Assembly on November 27, 2018 serves as a unique unified platform for international development cooperation and the mobilization of donor resources to implement integrated measures and complement the efforts to address the consequences of the Aral Sea disaster by the Government in the Aral Sea region through the Human Security approach.
MPHSTF Programmatic Framework
The MPHSTF’s programmatic areas complement existing national and UN-led efforts to mitigate the Aral Sea crisis. Proposals must contribute to one or more of the following areas that are the focus of the Fund’s Programmatic Framework:
Environmental insecurity
Economic insecurity
Food insecurity
Health insecurity
Social insecurity
Thematic Focus for the Fourth Call
As per the decision of the MPHSTF Steering Committee from 24 November 2023, the MPHSTF’s Outcome 1 - The stress on local communities due to the deteriorating environmental situation reduced and its outputs such as (i) local management practices and knowledge of ecosystem services are improved, (ii) new technologies in the area of water purification, agroforestry, afforestation, and soil stabilisation are piloted and (iii) the quality of water, air and soil pollution is monitored and addressed through local regulatory practices and relevant thematic areas are the priorities of the current (Fourth) Call for Proposals.
Who is eligible to submit proposals?
The Participating UN organizations (PUNOs), i.e., UNDP, UNFPA, UNICEF, UNESCO, UNODC, WHO, FAO and UNOPS are eligible to submit proposals to the MPHSTF. PUNOs are encouraged to develop proposals in partnership with national and international counterparts (e.g., government agencies, local authorities, NGOs, CSOs, academia, etc.). Proposals can only be formally submitted by PUNOs.
Preliminary discussions between participating organizations (PUNOs, government agencies, local authorities, NGOs, CSOs, academia, private sector, other) should take place to determine the scope of the project/programme, its strategic and programmatic relevance, governance arrangements, risks, sustainability among other aspects.
The proposals will be assessed against the following principles and selection criteria:
Innovative:
Focusing on technology transfer and the piloting of new approaches
Investing in ICTs and research and development opportunities for the region
Developing new public-private partnerships, including with the government, to ensure protection and empowerment for the long term
People-centered:
Based on an assessment of the needs, capacities and insecurities of people as well as the risks of the region;
Designed, implemented and evaluated with the help of the communities, building on people’s own aspirations and capabilities
Involving and mobilizing communities for problem identification, planning, implementation and evaluation and ensuring participation.
Promote equal opportunities for men and women and ensure mainstreaming gender equality in proposed activities.
Context-specific:
Designed based on the conditions of the Aral Sea region and on knowledge of the situation of communities targeted
Differentiated consideration of the needs of the population at the level of each aul, kishlak, makhalla, rural areas, based on environmental factors, population distribution and transport accessibility
Developed on the basis of community development plans for targeted localities.
Ensuring sustainability and support the mitigation of adverse effects
Integrated solutions:
Based on the MPHSTF Theory of Change and not prepared in isolation
Strategic and multidimensional, so that interventions target several insecurities at the same time
Concentrating all interventions in the same area/with the same community, piloting around specific geographic area
Implementing interventions through consortiums and partnerships of providers from different sectors and with different specializations in order to link interventions across different insecurity areas
What are the Selection Criteria?
MPHSTF will evaluate proposals on the basis of the following key criteria:
The extent to which the goals and objectives of the proposal conform to the MPHSTF Programmatic Framework;
Alignment within the priority area of the MPHSTF’s Outcome 1 - The stress on local communities due to the deteriorating environmental situation reduced and its outputs such as (i) local management practices and knowledge of ecosystem services are improved, (ii) new technologies in the area of water purification, agroforestry, afforestation, and soil stabilisation are piloted and (iii) the quality of water, air and soil pollution is monitored and addressed through local regulatory practices for the Fourth Call for Proposals;
Integration of gender issues;
Context specific and relevance;
Effectiveness, impact and scalability;
Sustainability and cost efficiency;
Potential of the proposals to strengthen the national capacities, strengthen institutions and provide support to local actors;
Clear description of budget requirements and link to achieving results.
The call for proposals is open from 24 November 2023 till 24 December 2023 (18:00, Tashkent time, Uzbekistan).
Completed proposal forms should be submitted to the following e-mail address uktam.abdurakhmanov@undp.org to the attention of the MPHSTF Technical Secretariat.
1 of 5
Press Release
16 November 2023
Sand and dust storm frequency increasing in many world regions, UN warns
Sand and dust storms are an underappreciated problem now “dramatically” more frequent in some places worldwide, with at least 25% of the phenomenon attributed to human activities, according to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).
Accompanied by policy recommendations, the warning comes as a five-day meeting takes place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan to take stock of global progress in the Convention’s implementation. The UNCCD is one of three Conventions originated at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. The other two address climate change (UNFCCC) and biodiversity (UN CBD).
The meeting, 13-17 November (https://www.unccd.int/cric21), includes a high-level session on 15 November hosted by the Government of Uzbekistan on ways to address the impacts of sand and dust storms on global agriculture, industry, transportation, water and air quality, and human health.
“Sand and dust storms present a formidable challenge to achieving sustainable development. However, just as sand and dust storms are exacerbated by human activities, they can also be reduced through human actions,” adds Thiaw.
While sand and dust storms (SDS) are a regionally common and seasonal natural phenomenon, the problem is exacerbated by poor land and water management, droughts, and climate change, according to UNCCD experts.
And fluctuations in their intensity, magnitude, or duration “can make SDS unpredictable and dangerous.”
With impacts far beyond the source regions, an estimated 2 billion tons of sand and dust now enters the atmosphere every year, an amount equal in weight to 350 Great Pyramids of Giza.
In some areas, desert dust doubled in the last century.
“Sand and dust storms (SDS) have become increasingly frequent and severe having substantial transboundary impacts, affecting various aspects of the environment, climate, health, agriculture, livelihoods and the socioeconomic well-being of individuals. The accumulation of impacts from sand and dust storms can be significant,” says Feras Ziadat, Technical Officer at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO), Chair of the UN Coalition on Combating Sand and Dust Storms.
“In source areas, they damage crops, affect livestock, and strip topsoil. In depositional areas atmospheric dust, especially in combination with local industrial pollution, can cause or worsen human health problems such as respiratory diseases. Communications, power generation, transport, and supply chains can also be disrupted by low visibility and dust-induced mechanical failures. The United Nations Coalition on Combating Sand and Dust Storms, currently chaired by FAO, was created in 2019 to lead global efforts to tackle SDS.”
In their Sand and Dust Storms Compendium and accompanying SDS Toolbox (https://www.unccd.int/land-and-life/sand-and-dust-storms/toolbox), UNCCD, FAO and partners offer guidance on approaches and methodologies for collecting and assessing SDS data, monitoring and early warning, impact mitigation and preparedness, and source mapping and anthropogenic source mitigation at sub-national, national, regional and global levels.
The SDS discussion forms part of the agenda of this year’s meeting in Uzbekistan of the UNCCD’s Committee for the Review of the Implementation of the Convention (CRIC 21) and global progress in delivering the Convention’s strategic objectives. It marks the first time since its establishment that UNCCD has convened one of its most significant meetings in Central Asia.
The meeting comes at a critical juncture, as recent statistics published via UNCCD’s new data dashboard (https://data.unccd.int/) shows the world now losing nearly 1 million square kilometers of healthy and productive land every year – some 4.2 million square kilometers between 2015-2019, or roughly the combined area of five Central Asian nations: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
During the meeting (at 18:00 local time / 13:00 GMT, Tuesday 14 November) UNCCD and FAO experts will launch three reports:
Sand and dust storms. A guide to mitigation, adaptation, policy and risk management measures in agriculture
Contingency planning process for catalysing investments and actions to enhance resilience against sand and dust storms in agriculture in the Islamic Republic of Iran and
Preparing for sand and dust storm contingency planning with herding communities: a case study on Mongolia
Other items on the CRIC 21 agenda include promoting sustainable land management, ensuring fair land rights for women, and tackling droughts and wildfires exacerbated by climate change and environmental degradation.
* * * * *
Background: Sand and dust storms
Sand and dust storms (SDS) are known by many local names: the sirocco, haboob, yellow dust, white storms, or the harmattan.
While SDS can fertilize both land and marine ecosystems, they also present a range of hazards to human health, livelihoods and the environment.
SDS events typically originate in low-latitude drylands and sub-humid areas where vegetation cover is sparse or absent.
They can also occur in other environments, including agricultural and high-latitude areas in humid regions, when specific wind and atmospheric conditions coincide. SDS events can have substantial transboundary impacts, over thousands of kilometers. Unified and coherent global and regional policy responses are needed, especially to address source mitigation, early warning systems, and monitoring.
SDS often have significant economic impacts: for example, they cost the oil sector in Kuwait an estimated US$ 190 million annually, while a single SDS event in 2009 resulted in damage estimated at US$ 229 - 243 million in Australia.
The major global sources of mineral dust are in the northern hemisphere across North Africa, the Middle East and East Asia. In the southern hemisphere, Australia, South America and Southern Africa are the main dust sources.
More than 80% of Central Asia is covered by deserts and steppes which, coupled with climate change and lasting droughts, represent a major natural source of sand and dust storms.
The dried-up Aral Sea is a major source of SDS, emitting more than 100 million tons of dust and poisonous salts every year, impacting the health not just of the people living in the vicinity, but far beyond and generating annual losses of US$ 44 million.
Recognition of SDS as a disaster risk appears to be high in North-East Asia, parts of West Asia and North America but less prominent elsewhere.
Low recognition of SDS as a disaster risk is likely due to the lack (in many cases) of significant immediate direct human fatalities or injuries from individual SDS events, and limited consolidated documentation on their long-term health, economic or other impacts.
SDS and health
SDS can be life-threatening for individuals with adverse health conditions.
Fine dust particles are carried to high tropospheric levels (up to a few kilometres high) where winds can transport them over long distances.
The health implications of SDS have been under increased investigation for decades, with most studies conducted in East Asia, Europe and the Middle East. There has been a lack of studies in West Africa.
A particular focus of this research has been SDS modification of air pollution.
The cause-and-effect between sand and dust in the atmosphere and health outcomes remains unclear and requires more extensive study. What can be said is that at-risk members of a population, especially those with pre-existing cardiopulmonary issues, including childhood asthma, may have a higher mortality or morbidity rate during a dust storm.
SDS can also impose major costs on the agricultural sector through crop destruction or reduced yield, animal death or lower yields of milk or meat, and damage to infrastructure.
For annual crops, losses are due to burial of seedlings or crops under sand deposits, loss of plant tissue and reduced photosynthetic activity as a result of sandblasting. This can lead to complete crop loss in a region or reduced yield.
There may also be a longer-term effect on some perennial crops due to tree or crop damage (such as lucerne/alfalfa crowns being damaged).
On a positive note, SDS dust can contain soil nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, as well as organic carbon. Some places benefit from this nutrient deposition on land, and mineral and nutrient deposition on water, particularly ocean bodies. When deposited, these can provide nutrients to downwind crop or pasture areas. These limited benefits, however, are far outweighed by the harms done.
Globally, the main large dust sources are dried lakes; local sources include glacial outwash plains, volcanic ash zones and recently plowed fields.
The multi-faceted, cross-sectoral and transnational impacts of SDS directly affect 11 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals yet global recognition of SDS as a hazard is generally low due in part to the complexity and seasonally cumulative impact of SDS, coupled with limited data.
Insufficient information and impact assessments hinder effective decision-making and planning to effectively address SDS sources and impacts.
UNCCD helps governments create policies to promote the scaling-up of sustainable land management practices and to find and use the latest science to develop and implement effective mitigation policies.
Working with The Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia, UNCCD assists countries vulnerable to drought and sand and dust storms in Central Asia to develop and implement risk reduction strategies at national and regional level. UNCCD encourages countries to adopt a comprehensive risk reduction strategy with monitoring and early warning systems to improve preparedness and resilience to these environmental disasters.
Among the measures most needed are
A multi-sectoral approach bolstered by information-sharing, short- and long-term interventions, engaging multiple stakeholders, and raising awareness of SDS.
Land restoration, using soil and water management practices to protect soils and increase vegetative cover, which have been shown to significantly reduce the extent and vulnerability of source areas, and reduce the intensity of typical SDS events.
Early warning and monitoring, building on up-to-date risk knowledge, and forecasting, with all stakeholders (including at-risk populations) participating to ensure that warnings are provided in a timely and targeted manner
Impact mitigation, through preparedness to reduce vulnerability, increase resilience, and enables a timely, effective response to SDS events
* * * * *
About
The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is an international agreement on good land stewardship. It helps people, communities and countries create wealth, grow economies and secure enough food, clean water and energy by ensuring land users an enabling environment for sustainable land management. Through partnerships, the Convention’s 197 parties set up robust systems to manage drought promptly and effectively. Good land stewardship based on sound policy and science helps integrate and accelerate achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, builds resilience to climate change and prevents biodiversity loss.
The UNCCD Secretariat led the creation of the SDS Compendium document in collaboration with the UNCCD Science-Policy Interface (SPI), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the World Health Organization (WHO), the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), UN Women, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO), the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), and external experts and partners.
1 of 5
Press Release
10 November 2023
Central Asia to host first-ever meeting of the UN treaty on desertification, land degradation and drought
Bonn/Samarkand, 09/11/2023 - The twenty-first session of the Committee for the Review of the Implementation of the Convention (CRIC 21) to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) will be held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan from 13-17 November 2023.
CRIC21 will bring together an estimated 500 delegates from 196 countries and the European Union, civil society, and academia to reflect on progress in delivering the Convention’s strategic objectives. It marks the first time UNCCD convenes one of its most significant meetings in Central Asia, since its establishment.
This meeting comes at a critical juncture, as recent data launched by UNCCD shows that the world is losing nearly 100 million hectares of healthy and productive land every year. If current trends continue, 1.5 billion hectares of land will need to be restored by 2030 to achieve land degradation neutrality around the globe. But, halting additional degradation and accelerating existing commitments alone could surpass the neutrality target.
UNCCD Executive Secretary Ibrahim Thiaw said: “Droughts, wildfires and heatwaves we have witnessed around the world are the symptoms of the deepening and interlinked climate and nature crises, with land at the heart of both. Since 2015, some 4 million square kilometres of healthy and productive lands have been lost—an area roughly the size of Central Asia. We must urgently stop further land degradation and restore at least 1 billion hectares to meet global land targets by 2030.”
CRIC21 will be held at the Silk Road Samarkand Congress Centre. Parties will have the opportunity to review progress and provide recommendations towards achieving global targets to prevent and reverse land degradation, in line with the 2018-2030 UNCCD strategic and implementation frameworks.
Among the highlights of the CRIC21 programme:
Opening plenary on 13 November from 10:00-13:00 with introductory statements from the Chair of the CRIC, the UNCCD Executive Secretary and the representative of the Government of Uzbekistan.
UNCCD Gender Caucus on 14 and 16 November from 13:00-15:00 will convene international experts to discuss women’s land rights as a prerequisite to the success of global land restoration and drought resilience efforts.
A high-level political event on Sand and Dust Storms hosted by the government of Uzbekistan will be held on 15 November from 10:00-13:00. In recent years, sand and dust storms have increased in both frequency and severity in both Uzbekistan and surrounding countries.
For the first time, more than 30 side events will be organized at CRIC21. These events provide the informal opportunity for parties and accredited observer organizations to exchange information and experiences on diverse issues related to the objectives of the Convention.
Press briefings will be held throughout CRIC21 between 13:00-15:00 local time, including:
13 November: Focus on Central Asia: global and regional trends on desertification, land degradation and drought with UNCCD Chief Scientist, Dr Barron Orr, and Programme Officer, Science, Technology and Innovation Unit, Ms Olga Andreeva (TBC).
14 November: Her Land. Her Rights: global and regional efforts to advance women’s land rights and their engagement in land restoration and drought resilience efforts with UNCCD and regional experts (TBC).
15 November: Sand and Dust Storms: the latest data on this growing phenomenon with UNCCD and regional experts, as well as the outcomes of the high-level event hosted by the Government of Uzbekistan.
17 November: Closing press conference: an overview of the key outcomes of CRIC21 with Mr Ibrahim Thiaw, UNCCD Executive Secretary, Ms. Biljana Kilibarda, Chair of the CRIC, and Mr Aziz Abdukhakimov, Uzbek Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change.
Notes to Editors
Accredited media representatives are invited to attend and report on CRIC21 and associated events. Field visits where journalists can see land restoration and drought resilience projects will take place immediately before and after CRIC21.
Daily highlights of CRIC21 will be provided by the IISD Earth Negotiations Bulletin: https://enb.iisd.org/unccd-committee-review-implementation-convention-c…
Side events schedule is available here: https://www.unccd.int/sites/default/files/2023-10/Side%20Events%20CRIC21.pdf
Visual assets about CRIC21 and the UNCCD Data Dashboard are available here: https://trello.com/b/zq0kxtkK/unccd-cric21-samarkand-uzb-2023
Online registration for media representatives is available at the following link: www.unccd.int/cric-21-online-registration.
To register, please provide the following documents:
One recent passport-sized photograph
A valid press card
A copy (picture and signature pages) of your passport (for foreign journalists) or national identity card (for local applicants)
A letter of introduction from the bureau chief or company sponsoring your travel to the session. For freelance journalists, a letter is required from the media organization assigning you to cover the conference
A duly completed accreditation form
Journalists who register online will be able to collect their accreditation at the Silk Road Samarkand Congress Center on presentation of a valid press card and an identity document.
For more information on the regulations governing visa applications and the introduction of reporting material into Uzbekistan, please consult the following link: https://e-visa.gov.uz/main_
For inquiries about media accreditation or coverage of the event, please contact: press@unccd.int
A dedicated press and media working space will be available at the conference venue.
Additional information and media updates on the Convention and CRIC 21 will be available on the UNCCD website: https://www.unccd.int/cric21
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.
1 of 5
Press Release
16 November 2023
Meeting of Civil Society Advisory Council of Uzbekistan Vision 2030 Fund
This fund was established in 2022 based on the agreement between the Swiss Confederation and the government of the Republic of Uzbekistan on the procedure for the return of illegally acquired assets confiscated in Switzerland for the benefit of the population of the Republic of Uzbekistan. To ensure constructive interaction between the Fund and representatives of national and international civil society and academia, a Civil Society Advisory Council (CSAC) was established in March 2023 through a consultative process led by Civil Society representatives who developed the CSAC Terms of Reference. More information about objectives and responsibilities of CSAC members in the Documents section: https://mptf.undp.org/fund/uzb00.
During the three-day discussions, the civil society advisory council met with deputy ministers, heads of UN agencies in Uzbekistan, and members of the Uzbekistan Vision 2030 Fund's Management Committee.
The Fund’s management committee consists of Ms. Consuelo Vidal-Bruce, the UN Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan, Mr. Ilhom Norkulov- the First Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy of Uzbekistan, and Mr. Konstantin Obolensky- the Ambassador of Switzerland to Uzbekistan.
The Civil Society Advisory Council also visited the Perinatal Center located in Tashkent region. The first project financed by the Fund aims to significantly reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths in Uzbekistan. One of the main goals of the new project is to increase the survival rate babies with low birth weight from the current 75% to 90%. About the project: https://mptf.undp.org/project/00140334
Uzbekistan Vision 2030 Fund supports the principled, transparent and efficient return of assets through programs aimed at accelerating the implementation of the national reform agenda and Sustainable Development Goals of the Government of Uzbekistan. For more information, please visit the Fund's website: https://mptf.undp.org/fund/uzb00
List of the CSAC Members
Kobil Khidirov.
Journalist, blogger. https://t.me/davletovuz
qobilmirzo@gmail.com
Sayyora Khodjaeva.
Director, Institute for Democracy and Human Rights.
khodjaeva.s@mail.ru
Oybek Isakov.
Chairperson, Association of People with Disabilities.
rais-2003@mail.ru
Nodira Karimova.
Director, “Istiqbolli Avlod”.
nkarimovaia@gmail.com
Irina Matvienko.
Member of National Commission on Forced Labour and Counter-Trafficking; Member of Task Force on Prevention of Domestic Violence and Practical Assistance to Victims of Domestic Violence; Founder, NeMolchi.Uz.
nemolchiorg@gmail.com
Liliana Sin.
Co-founder of NGO “KRASS”.
liliana.sin66@mail.ru
Oliya Ilmuradova.
Chairman, International Socio-Enlightenment Center "Sustainable Life”.
i_avlod@mail.ru
Mathias Huter.
Managing Director, UNCAC Coalition, Austria.
mathias.huter@
uncaccoalition.org Patrick Mutzenberg. Director, Centre of Civil and Political Rights (CCPR), Switzerland. pmutzenberg@ccpr
centre.org Shamil Asyanov. Head, Center for Legal Problems, PhD in Law. asyanov.shamil@gmail.com Nazifa Kamalova. Director, NGO “Istiqlol avlodi”, Jizzakh region. djizzak2013@gmail.com Kamola Alieva. Expert on gender equality issues, women's rights activist, PhD in law. kamolaalieva@gmail.com Sanjar Yuldashev. Director, branch of "Barqaror Hayot" in Tashkent, PhD in Psychology. Yuliy Yusupov. Director, Center for Economic Development www.ced.uz y.yusupov@mail.ru Isa Khamedov. Professor of the Department of “Theory of Law and Public Administration”, Head of the “Research Center for State Construction and Public Law” of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy. khamedov@list.ru Muslim Mirzajonov. Journalist. roshidonlik@gmail.com Aziza Kurbanova. Journalist, blogger. bimola@list.ru Timur Karpov. Photographer, Founder of ‘139 Documentary Center. timur.karpov@gmail.com
uncaccoalition.org Patrick Mutzenberg. Director, Centre of Civil and Political Rights (CCPR), Switzerland. pmutzenberg@ccpr
centre.org Shamil Asyanov. Head, Center for Legal Problems, PhD in Law. asyanov.shamil@gmail.com Nazifa Kamalova. Director, NGO “Istiqlol avlodi”, Jizzakh region. djizzak2013@gmail.com Kamola Alieva. Expert on gender equality issues, women's rights activist, PhD in law. kamolaalieva@gmail.com Sanjar Yuldashev. Director, branch of "Barqaror Hayot" in Tashkent, PhD in Psychology. Yuliy Yusupov. Director, Center for Economic Development www.ced.uz y.yusupov@mail.ru Isa Khamedov. Professor of the Department of “Theory of Law and Public Administration”, Head of the “Research Center for State Construction and Public Law” of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy. khamedov@list.ru Muslim Mirzajonov. Journalist. roshidonlik@gmail.com Aziza Kurbanova. Journalist, blogger. bimola@list.ru Timur Karpov. Photographer, Founder of ‘139 Documentary Center. timur.karpov@gmail.com
1 of 5
Press Release
30 October 2023
Webster University in Tashkent and UN system in Uzbekistan celebrate UN Day, showcasing cooperation and sustainable development initiatives
For several consecutive years, the UN Country Office in Uzbekistan has organized this annual event, presenting an engaging programme that highlights the close collaboration between the Organization and the government, as well as the ongoing projects being implemented in Uzbekistan.
The event commenced with an opening address by Consuelo Vidal Bruce, the UN Coordinator in Uzbekistan, who emphasized the significance of this day and its importance in strengthening cooperation.
This year's event programme was filled with captivating musical and stage performances. University students showcased interesting skits directly related to the Sustainable Development Goals, conveying a powerful message. Furthermore, the talented Uzbek singer Anvar Juraev of the group "Sahar" performed the song "Ayol" (Woman). Renowned singer Sharif Abdullayev, also known as Konsta, conveyed his message through a video encouraging the protection of environment.
Following the main part of the event, an exhibition of UN agencies took place. Representatives from various organizations shared insights into their core activities and highlighted opportunities available for young people, engaging students, and guests alike.
The International UN Day celebration at Webster University not only fostered a sense of collaboration and partnership but also highlighted the commitment towards sustainable development initiatives. It served as a platform to inspire and inform attendees about the crucial work conducted by UN agencies and the opportunities they provide for the youth.
1 of 5
Latest Resources
1 / 11
Resources
10 November 2021
Resources
21 July 2021
1 / 11