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

30 June 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.

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Story

02 December 2025

Three Stories, One Mission: Supporting a More Inclusive Uzbekistan

Each of them lives with a different disability, and each has faced challenges along the way. Through volunteering, they advocate for disability inclusion. At the same time, they empower each other, proving that working together can make a real difference.Firuza: Access, respect, and equal opportunity I am a young woman living with a visual disability since birth. Over the years I have learned to navigate the world through sound, empathy, and determination.Currently, I work as a UN Volunteer, helping UN Uzbekistan to produce communication materials that ensure people with disabilities are represented and heard. I also run an Instagram, and share the barriers I face and how many public spaces in Tashkent are still inaccessible for people with disabilities.In 2025, I proudly finished second in the 5 km inclusive race at the Samarkand Marathon. For me, the race wasn’t about winning, it was about visibility, showing that inclusion is something we put into action, not just talk about.I’m not interested in being “an example.” I’m focused on being a professional who contributes — someone who uses communication to open doors for others. Inclusion isn’t about inspiration, it’s about access, respect, and equal opportunity.Shaida: Making our society more inclusive and tolerant My name is Shaida. I gradually lost my vision over the years. In 2015, my vision deteriorated sharply, making it difficult to navigate the city, though I continued believing in the best. In 2023, we moved to Tbilisi, where I started using a white cane and worked with a mobility specialist. I gained confidence moving independently. After returning to Tashkent in 2024, I joined “Sharoyit Plus,” NGO and took part in inclusive forums, and began training as an athlete with a professional coach. Working as a UN Volunteer allows me to share my experience, inspire others, and promote inclusion. My goal is to visit schools and universities across Uzbekistan, motivating young people with disabilities to never give up.Recently, I joined other UN Volunteers to run trainings at universities in Tashkent, where we talked about what inclusion truly is and how each person can help make our society more inclusive and tolerant.Shakhodat: Creating Opportunities I am a young woman with albinism. When I was a child, some people advised my parents to send me to a boarding school so I could have an easier path to university. Instead, they chose our village’s public school so I could grow up alongside other children, make friends, and feel less set apart. School was not easy. I often sat in the very front and still struggled to see the board. I faced discrimination and sometimes bullying. Many teachers simply didn’t know how to support a student with albinism, which led to misunderstandings. Even so, I finished 11 years of school and went on to university.Watching my siblings, who also have albinism, I realized how much I wanted their experience to be different from mine — free from discrimination, treated equally by teachers and classmates, and given access to assistive tools that make learning easier. My goal became clear: to help create the opportunities I didn’t have.After graduating from university, I joined the “Ish Plus” project with “Sharoit Plus” NGO, helping over 300 people with disabilities find jobs. Today, I serve as a UN Volunteer, I support the UN team in Uzbekistan by making their communication more inclusive and highlighting the challenges people with disabilities face.BackgroundSince Uzbekistan ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2021, the UN Country Team has supported the country’s efforts to improve disability inclusion. Through a joint programme, the UN expanded inclusive social services, trained nurses, teachers, and service providers, and supported reforms to disability assessment, data systems, and budgeting. The UN also raised awareness among public service workers and helped empower youth and Organizations of Persons with Disabilities through advocacy and legal-literacy initiatives.

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20 November 2025

There are two hearts beating

“At an ultrasound visit, a doctor told us that the twins were conjoined, but two hearts were beating,” recalls Zuhra “Knowing that, despite the slim chances, how could I not fight for my grandchildren. I said that these girls will live. And we won.Today, Zuhra Khudoyberdieva is a proud and beaming grandmother. She shares a remarkable tale of triumph against the odds—a compelling narrative of how modern healthcare can transform lives amidst the most challenging circumstances.“At an ultrasound visit, a doctor told us that the twins were conjoined, but two hearts were beating,” recalls Zuhra “Knowing that, despite the slim chances, how could I not fight for my grandchildren. I said that these girls will live. And we won.On the fateful day, her daughter-in-law, Ogiloy, had to undergo emergency labor, it was not in a massive metropolitan hospital where the miracle would occur, but at the modest Chirchik perinatal center, in the heart of Tashkent region.Once scarcely equipped for complex surgeries, the Chirchik facility recently rose to the occasion, delivering and successfully separating its first set of conjoined twins, thanks to Uzbekistan's substantial investment in healthcare modernization.The transformation of 230 perinatal centers across the nation, including Chirchik, was made possible under Ishonch Fund, a repatriation agreement between Uzbekistan and Switzerland, financing $43.5 million to the Ministry of Health, aimed at revamping maternal and perinatal care through a collaboration spearheaded by UNICEF, UNFPA, and WHO.For Ogiloy and the twins, this investment was nothing short of lifesaving. Every moment was crucial, and the swift intervention and advanced equipment played pivotal roles in this miraculous outcome."After consulting with Professor Bakhtiyor Ergashev of the Republican Perinatal Center, we performed an emergency Caesarean section to deliver and another much more complicated surgery to separate the twins," explains Dr. Doniyor Asadov, Director of the Tashkent regional branch of the Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center for Mother and Child Health. "Our region’s capability for such a unique operation was possible because we are very well equipped."The Chirchik center now boasts advanced lifesaving equipment: incubators for premature infants, machines assisting those with breathing difficulties, heart rate monitors, and surgical lights—an essential toolkit enabling the most delicate operations."The uniqueness of the “Ishonch 2030” program is allowing us to care for all premature babies, including underweight children starting at 500 grams," Dr. Asadov adds.Nursing these delicate newborns was possible thanks to the new equipment and ongoing staff training under the “Ishonch 2030” Fund.The story which started with two heartbeats holding onto hope, grew firmer each day. Despite the inherent risks of complicated childbirth, small perinatal centers like Chirchik are witness to such small miracles every day.Across Uzbekistan, from the bustling capital to its rural outskirts, the nation’s 230 perinatal centers are replicating this magic.Beyond equipment upgrades, healthcare workers acquired crucial skills to care for the most fragile newborns. Social behavior campaigns urge pregnant women to seek early care, reinforcing a widespread embrace of timely care and modern medicine.Today, the twins are comfortably home, surrounded by a family brimming with joy and optimism. The twins have become the center of affection, with Ogiloy and Zuhra receiving an outpouring of support in their caregiving journey."My daughters are thriving," Ogiloy proudly shares. "I am breastfeeding them, and I dream of them growing into doctors—like those who brought them safely into this world."Indeed, this is a story beginning with heartbeats in peril now thriving in safety—a testament to the power of modern healthcare and unyielding hope.

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26 May 2025

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

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

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18 February 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.

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24 January 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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Press Release

02 December 2025

Termez Air Quality Assessment 2025: Towards Cleaner Air and Clearer Skies in Southern Uzbekistan

The study analyzed data from Termez’s first automatic reference-grade air quality monitoring station, installed in 2024 with support from the Zamin Foundation. It provides an in-depth analysis of pollutant concentrations, identifies major emission sources, and outlines evidence-based policy recommendations to improve air quality in the city.The event will feature a detailed presentation of the assessment by FMI experts, alongside updates from the Government of Uzbekistan on recent advances in air quality monitoring and policy. Bringing together national and local authorities, development partners, experts, civil society, and media, the event aims to foster dialogue and cooperation on cleaner air for Termez and the Surkhandarya region. Participation in the event is by invitation only. Stakeholders based in Uzbekistan are invited to join the event in person in Tashkent, while international participants may connect online. Simultaneous interpretation in English, Uzbek, and Russian will be provided to ensure inclusive participation.

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Press Release

24 November 2025

UN Uzbekistan Launches the 2025 “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence”

Sabine Machl, UN Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan, said:“In recent years Uzbekistan has introduced major legal reforms, criminalized domestic violence, expanded gender data systems, and strengthened protection services — including in the regions. These reforms form a strong foundation for addressing digital violence, but as digitalization accelerates, laws, services, and awareness must keep pace.”Throughout the 16 days, UN and partners will implement a series of activities across the country, including:A roundtable on online violence presenting the Legal Review on technology-facilitated GBV.Launch of the “BodyRight” social movement.Male engagement initiatives like “Gender Chayhona” and “Family Support Club” in 9 regions.Workshops strengthening law enforcement capacity to support GBV survivors.Awareness campaigns with the private sector.Faith-based organization engagement to advance women’s rights from Islamic perspectives.Launch of a Gender-Transformative Parenting Programme for caregivers of adolescents.Youth consultations on Public Finance for Gender Equality and Care Economy.Intensive IT and digital internship programme for girls and women.Uzbekistan has made remarkable progress in protecting women and girls from violence. Now, as digital spaces grow, we must ensure that laws, services, and public awareness advance alongside technology. These 16 days are a reminder that ending violence requires action — online, offline, and in every community.The UN Country Team calls on all government institutions, civil society, private companies, youth organisations, and community leaders to join the campaign.

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Press Release

19 November 2025

Every two minutes a woman dies from cervical cancer. We must act now

This Monday, 17 November, the world marked the first-ever World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day, designated by the 78th World Health Assembly. For the first time in history, countries are observing a global health day dedicated to eliminating cancer — united under the call: “Act Now: Eliminate Cervical Cancer” to build on existing progress and accelerate impact.A preventable and curable cancer, and an unequal burdenCervical cancer is one of the few cancers that is fully preventable, detectable and treatable when caught early. Yet, it remains the 4th most common cancer among women globally, with 660,000 new cases in 2022. In the same year, 350,000 deaths were caused by cervical cancer. Tragically 94% of these deaths occurred in low- and middle-income countries, where access to vaccination, screening, and treatment services remains limited. These deaths are linked also to risk factors such as social and economic determinants, including gender bias and poverty. The burden falls heavily on families. Cervical cancer disproportionately affects younger women, and as a result, globally 1 in 5 children who lose their mother to cancer lose her to cervical cancer. The consequence is not only medical, but social, emotional, and economic.
In Uzbekistan cancer remains a major public health concern. According to the 2022 Global Cancer Observatory by the International Agency for Research, in Uzbekistan cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women and accounted for over 2,000 new cancers in women. Sadly, approximately 1,585 women died from cervical cancer in the same year.
Arofat’s story: why early detection matters
Last year WHO published the story of Arofat Marakhimova, a school nurse from Tashkent region whose life was changed by a single HPV test.When the clinic called with her results, she was afraid. The diagnosis felt overwhelming. But early detection through an HPV pilot programme launched by WHO, UNFPA, IARC, and the embassy of France meant her condition was identified early, when treatment is most effective.Arofat is one of the many women who participated in the pilot programme in Tashkent region and Karakalpakstan, which aimed to reach more than 56,000 women with HPV screening. Stories like Arofat’s laid the foundation for Uzbekistan’s first HPV-based national screening programme, which started in 2025.A global plan and Uzbekistan’s progressThe encouraging news is that the world has a plan. Proven, cost-effective interventions exist to prevent, screen for, and treat cervical cancer.In 2020, all 194 WHO Member States agreed to eliminate cervical cancer — the first global commitment to eliminate a cancer. WHO launched the Global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem.The strategy calls on all countries to reach the 90−70−90 targets by 2030:90% of girls fully vaccinated with HPV vaccine by age 15;70% of women screened with a high-performance test by ages 35 and 45;90% of women with cervical disease receiving treatment.Through modelling, some interim benefits of achieving 90−70−90 shows 300,000 cervical cancer deaths averted by 2030.Uzbekistan is taking decisive steps towards cervical cancer elimination.HPV vaccinationAccording to the Ministry of Health, 94% of girls aged 12−14 have received the first dose of HPV vaccine.
This is one of the highest rates in the region — and a powerful step toward protecting the next generation. Early detection and screening programsDemonstrating strong political commitment to address the cancer burden including cervical cancer, the government of Uzbekistan secured a loan from the Islamic Development Bank to support the expansion and enhancement of oncology services in the country.The government has partnered with WHO through an agreement to strengthen access to safe, high-quality oncology services.WHO continues to provide technical expertise and assistance for strengthening prevention, early diagnosis and treatment services for cervical cancer.WHO has supported the update of national clinical guidelines and protocols for cervical cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, ensuring alignment with WHO recommendations and international standards.WHO further provided technical support for an HPV testing pilot in Chirchik district which demonstrated the feasibility of implementing screening at the primary care level, with 5,600 women screened.Thirty-five providers have been trained to deliver cervical cancer screening at the primary care level through strengthening of knowledge, communication to women and community, and understanding referral pathways for women with complex cervical disease.Twenty-four laboratory staff have been trained to ensure they are well-informed about HPV test processing, operational procedures, communication of results to women.Eighty specialists (nurses, medical technologists, cytotechnologists, and pathologists) trained to interpret cytology and biopsy samples improving the accuracy of diagnosing precancerous and malignant cervical lesions and ensure the rational use of colposcopy and treatment resources.Closing the gaps: what must happen nextWhile we celebrate the significant strides made, missed opportunities for diagnosis and treatment should be addressed with a more integrated approach. To make the change, cervical cancer services need to be integrated throughout the life course, linked with maternal health, family planning and primary care to leverage the opportunities of other programs within the health system.I would like to leave you with these key messages:Cervical cancer can be prevented and treated when detected early;This requires interventions from vaccination to treatment;Addressing sociocultural barriers is essential;and Strong partnerships and collaboration are critical.Cervical cancer elimination is not an aspiration. It is achievable within our lifetime. With every girl received HPV vaccination and every woman screened, diagnosed and treated, Uzbekistan moves one step closer to this historic milestone.We all must ACT. Governments act. Youth act. Communities act. Survivors act. Will you?

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Press Release

18 November 2025

National Conference “Eco-Industrial Parks in Uzbekistan: Progress and Perspectives”

The event will bring together representatives of government institutions, international organizations, industrial zone administrations, private sector companies, and technical experts to review progress, exchange lessons learned and discuss next steps in advancing eco-industrial parks (EIP) development across Uzbekistan. Since 2023, UNIDO has been implementing a pilot initiative on the introduction of eco-industrial park approaches in Uzbekistan as part of the broader project “Private Sector Development and Economic Policy Advice in Uzbekistan” implemented by GIZ and funded by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The initiative has piloted EIP principles in two industrial locations — the Urgut Free Economic Zone in Samarkand and the Mechanic Small Industrial Zone in Fergana — with the goal of transforming traditional industrial zones into modern, environmentally responsible and resource-efficient industrial ecosystems.The initiative focuses on integrating international best practices, reducing environmental impact, improving resource efficiency, strengthening industrial cooperation, and fostering a circular economy, while building national capacities through training and technical advisory support provided to government institutions, industrial zone administrations, experts and enterprises.The conference program features presentations on international best practices and opportunities for scaling EIP development in Uzbekistan, followed by a summary of overall project results. Representatives of the Institute for Legislation and Legal Policy will share updates on ongoing efforts to institutionalize EIP policy and advance related legislative reforms. UNIDO’s National Gender Expert will highlight the role of gender equality in successful EIP implementation. Participants will also discuss the findings of Results of Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) assessments conducted at selected enterprises operating in the Urgut FEZ and Mechanic SIZ. Representatives of both zones will share their practical experience in introducing EIP principles at the local level, complemented by technical presentations on wastewater treatment solutions in Urgut FEZ and the potential for deploying solar energy technologies at pilot sites. The event includes an open discussion session for all participants to explore into the experience and future of EIPs in Uzbekistan. It will culminate in a formal certificate-awarding ceremony recognising the contribution of experts, enterprises, and zone administrations, followed by a networking reception.The conference will take place on 20 November 2025 from 10:00 to 14:00 (UZT) at the U-Enter Innovation Center, Shakhrisabz Street 25, Mirabad district, Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Interpretation in Uzbek, Russian, and English will be provided.All interested participants are kindly requested to register in advance, no later than 17 November 2025, by completing the online form available at the following link:[Link Here].Participation is free of charge, but prior registration is mandatory due to limited seats available.Uzbekistan's commitment to developing eco-industrial parks marks an important step toward sustainable industrial modernization, increased competitiveness, and alignment with the country’s green development strategy. By implementing international EIP standards and engaging multiple stakeholders across public and private sectors, the project contributes to shaping an innovative, resource-efficient industrial ecosystem that supports green growth and long-term economic resilience.

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Press Release

28 October 2025

Uzbekistan and the United Nations Sign New Cooperation Framework for 2026–2030

The new Framework aims to promote human development, reduce inequality, and ensure that every person benefits from progress. Over the next five years, it will guide the work of 25 UN agencies, funds, and programmes supporting Uzbekistan’s national development priorities. The Cooperation Framework identifies six key areas: effective governance and justice, decent livelihoods and social protection, quality health and well-being, inclusive and equitable education, climate action and environmental sustainability; and the comprehensive development of the Aral Sea region.The UN Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan noted that the new Cooperation Framework places people at the center of development, aiming to empower everyone — including the most disadvantaged groups — to realize their potential and contribute to the progress of their communities. She emphasized that as Uzbekistan and the United Nations embark on their new five-year partnership for 2026–2030, joint efforts will focus on building a more prosperous, inclusive, and resilient country by 2030.The Cooperation Framework also includes a special focus on the Aral Sea region, supporting efforts to turn it into a center of sustainable development. These initiatives aim to improve people’s lives through better education, more jobs, and access to clean water.Developed jointly by the Government of Uzbekistan, led by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and the United Nations Country Team, the Framework was developed through in-depth consultations with government agencies, local authorities, civil society, young people, the private sector, and international partners.The signing ceremony, held on United Nations Day, marks the anniversary of the UN Charter and reaffirms the strong partnership between Uzbekistan and the United Nations. The event gathered senior government officials, representatives of the UN Country Team, diplomatic missions, academia, and civil society organizations.

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