United Nations in Uzbekistan

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

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Publication

11 August 2023

Uzbekistan United Nations Country Results Report 2022

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

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11 March 2025

UNHCR integrates Termez hub in Uzbekistan into global stockpile network

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

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04 February 2025

Transforming Industrial Zones in Uzbekistan: A Step Towards Sustainability

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

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13 December 2024

Construction is a job FOR WOMEN: story of Makhliyo

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

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30 October 2024

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

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

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04 November 2024

Fighting breast cancer: how Diana found hope and became a voice for others

Today, Diana, a 30-year-old mother of 2 living in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, is adjusting to her new life as a cancer awareness advocate who is living with a disease that challenges both her body and her spirit.“It all started when I noticed a lump in my breast and thought that I need to visit a doctor,” she says. At the time, as it did not feel threatening, Diana continued working for several days before paying a visit to a local oncology clinic in Tashkent. After tests and consultations, she was diagnosed with early, but already stage 2, breast cancer. Two tumours had turned into 5, and she needed to start treatment immediately to reduce the risk of poor outcomes.Breast cancer is the most common cancer across the WHO European Region, with more than 600 000 cases in 2022. Every hour in the Region, 69 women are diagnosed with breast cancer and 18 die from it. Early detection and quality treatment are the most important factors in successfully overcoming the disease.Coping strategies: essential for patients and their familiesChemotherapy helped to reduce Diana’s tumours but led to severe side effects, including a rare one that heavily damaged her liver. However, that didn’t stop her from speaking out about her experience. “I’m not sure why, but the diagnosis made me more active. I’ve started so many new things now that have drastically changed my life – and helped me cope with my disease,” she says.Diana emphasizes that cancer is not only a physical battle, it is also a mental one. She explains that her 2 young children are providing her with much-needed emotional strength: “My youngest is starting school, and I can’t allow cancer to take away these precious moments.” However, she recognizes that her diagnosis has been overwhelming for many of her relatives. Together, they have had to learn how to overcome the emotional toll that cancer takes. Diana points to the importance of mental health support for those diagnosed as well as their families. With this in mind, she began pursuing a degree in psychology while undergoing chemotherapy. “I want to help other women with a breast cancer diagnosis speak openly about their fears and struggles,” she says, sharing her ambition to help people find strength, hope and healing during their most difficult times.Becoming a cancer awareness advocateAs Diana’s battle with cancer began, she decided to share her story on social media, particularly on Instagram, where she had previously posted about fashion and travelling. She began to use the platform to raise awareness about breast cancer and encourage others to seek medical help if they suspect anything abnormal.Through her advocacy work, Diana wants to break down stigma and misperceptions. Many people still think of cancer as a disease that primarily affects older people, but Diana's story demonstrates that it can happen to anyone, at any age. She uses her platform to help people realize that speaking up about cancer is vital for breaking the silence that often surrounds it.Not everyone was ready to hear Diana’s call. Some of her former followers found it difficult to engage with her story and stopped following her. She lost close connections and experienced a decline in support from some people she considered friends. However, new followers emerged, drawn by her honesty and courage, and many friends drew even closer to Diana, trying to support her in many ways.“For every person who turned away, many more reached out and thanked me,” she says. Many went to look for more information because of Diana’s posts. “That’s what drives me, gives me the motivation to move on,” she adds.Diana’s message “Cancer doesn’t choose age, time or place,” Diana often reminds her followers. Her journey has not been an easy one, so she is happy to use any opportunity to flag these key facts about breast cancer:Early detection affects survival rates. Diana’s message to women is clear and urgent: “Examine your breasts regularly. If you notice anything suspicious, don’t wait – see a doctor immediately.” Treatment for most breast cancers can be highly effective, especially when the disease is identified early. Diana spent precious time trying to find her optimal treatment pathway, navigating between public and private health services. To avoid this scenario, a clear, accessible and complete treatment pathway is necessary for every cancer patient; this is the message Diana wants to send to countries of the Region and beyond.Don’t be afraid to speak openly about cancer. Raising awareness can help others seek early detection and treatment. This will also help to reduce stigma. Mental health support is crucial not just for the patient, but also for their families. No one should face cancer alone, and support networks are essential for both physical and emotional recovery.Today, Diana is working on a project to establish a rehabilitation centre for cancer patients and their families, aiming to provide support both during and after treatment. “After treatment, many patients feel lost and need guidance. That can and should be addressed.”In late October, Diana will have a double mastectomy. She hopes for the best, and thinks it’s a good sign that it will happen during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. “The best thing I can do today is to continue speaking out about the needs of cancer patients. With the support of policy-makers, breast cancer prevention, detection and treatment can be improved, helping many patients and their families to overcome the disease.”

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Press Release

27 February 2025

Language: A bridge to refugee integration and inclusion

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

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Press Release

29 November 2024

Enhancing laboratory capacity in Uzbekistan through an International Standardization Program

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

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Press Release

12 November 2024

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

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

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Press Release

09 October 2024

Situation Analysis on children and adolescents in Uzbekistan launched

Today, UNICEF and The Commissioner of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Children’s Rights have launched the Situation Analysis (SitAn) of Children and Adolescents in Uzbekistan. The analysis shows an impressive expansion and access to social services, with near universal coverage in education and health, improvement in policies and laws in the best interests of children, but the report also highlights key areas to accelerate results for children and adolescents. "This Analysis focuses on the situation of children and adolescents of Uzbekistan from the perspective of critical human rights principles such as equality, non-discrimination, equity, with particular attention to equitable opportunities and outcomes for all children,” said Surayo Rakhmonova, Commissioner of the Oliy Majlis for Children's Rights. “Undoubtedly, it can serve as a valuable tool for policy development and programme design aimed at improving the well-being of children and adolescents in Uzbekistan."Uzbekistan has made significant progress in providing access to universal health coverage (UHC) to its population, reflected by marked improvements in primary health care access and quality delivery. The introduction of a state health insurance program under the Uzbekistan 2030 strategy further underscores this commitment, targeting early death causes and aiming to increase life expectancy. However, gaps remain. Despite high reported vaccination coverage, approximately 9,000 zero-dose children still exist. Further, the is stigma and limited access to prevention services pose challenges, with only 31% of children and adolescents living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy. The country has impressive primary school enrolment rates standing at 99 per cent in 2021-2022. Preschool enrolment increased from less than 30 per cent in 2017 to over 73 per cent in 2024, with nearly 2 million children benefiting from early education programmes during the 2022-2023 period. Meanwhile, digital learning and ICT access increased with 94 per cent of schools having internet access. However, quality of education, particularly in terms of foundational skills and competencies, remains a concern. Further, much work is needed around inclusive education.Uzbekistan has made significant strides in enhancing its institutional reforms and legal framework for child protection. For instance, the ‘Law on protecting children from all forms of violence’ was approved by the Senate of Oliy Majlis and currently is pending the signature of the President. In the framework of childcare reform, Uzbekistan closed 23 childcare institutions in the past two years, transitioning 2,448 children to family and community-based care. Notwithstanding huge strides made, children with disabilities are still overrepresented in residential care, with 79 per cent of all children in residential care having a disability and much work needs to be done on Family support and reintegration services.Uzbekistan demonstrated global leadership by facilitating the repatriation and reintegration of women and children associated with foreign fighters. As a result of Mehr campaigns, more than 500 women and children returned to Uzbekistan.Achievements in social protection, include the establishment of the National Agency for Social Protection, which will advance a coherent social protection agenda in Uzbekistan. However, the limited fiscal space constrains the expansion of programmes on social protection. For instance, the number of children receiving child benefits were cut in the first quarter of 2024.“The recommendations of the SitAn are vital for evidence-based decision making in key sectors working with children and will be instrumental in informing our next programme cycle between the Government of Uzbekistan and UNICEF, in line with the National Strategy 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals,” said Regina Castillo, UNICEF Representative in Uzbekistan. “UNICEF remains committed to supporting the Government of Uzbekistan in its progressive realization of children’s rights, with a particular focus on the most vulnerable children and adolescents,” she added. The SitAn was developed with the engagement of key stakeholders, including representatives of line ministries and NGOs as well as people and children with disabilities. Findings of this report confirm substantial progress made by Uzbekistan over the last five years and identifies areas where improvements are needed. The last SitAn was done in Uzbekistan in 2019-2020.Note for editors: Full report is available on the UNICEF Uzbekistan website www.unicef.uz.For more information, please contact: Rushana AliakbarovaPress SecretaryChild Ombudsman OfficePhone: +99894 600 11 72 E-mail: murodullayevna1999@gmail.comNargiza EgamberdievaCommunication Officer UNICEF UzbekistanPhone: +998 93 380 34 19E-mail: negamberdieva@unicef.orgShakhlo AshrafkhanovaChild Rights Monitoring SpecialistUNICEF UzbekistanPhone: +99893 505 81 41E-mail: sashrafkhanova@unicef.org , filtered_html

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