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Press Release
29 November 2024
Enhancing laboratory capacity in Uzbekistan through an International Standardization Program
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Video
25 November 2024
Gender based violence is a blatant violation of human rights
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Press Release
08 November 2024
FAO Food Price Index rises in October, its steepest climb in over a year
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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.
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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
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23 January 2023
Regional SDG dialogues 2022
The Regional SDG dialogues were held in November and December in Urgench, Bukhara and Andijan
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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.
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Story
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.
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Story
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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20 June 2024
Gender and Engineering: why embracing diversity is important
From the buildings we work in to the roads we travel, engineers design and create the infrastructure that supports our daily lives. In Uzbekistan, where development projects are underway, having a diverse pool of engineers is crucial. This means not only focusing on technical skills but also embracing gender diversity. Globally, engineering remains a male-dominated field, and Uzbekistan is no different. Traditional gender roles, societal expectations, and workplace biases often discourage women from pursuing engineering careers. This gender gap means that the engineering sector misses out on the diverse perspectives and ideas that women can bring. “Graduating in architecture and civil engineering, I've noticed the significant gender disparity in the industry. However, it is in this area that women are needed the most, as we bring unique perspectives for an inclusive design and infrastructure”, says Makhliyo Rakhimova, Associate Architect. UNOPS acknowledges the necessity of gender inclusivity in engineering, and the initiatives led by UNOPS in Uzbekistan are a good example. Supporting the government in efforts* to improve the healthcare system in the country, UNOPS recognizes the importance of integrating more women into engineering to ensure that projects are more inclusive and accessible. Their approach helps to address and eliminate biases, making healthcare facilities more user-friendly for women, children, and the elderly.“With over 15 years of experience in health technology topics, the project on procuring oncology equipment is incredibly close to my heart. Seeing firsthand the struggles of cancer patients I am even more dedicated to using my skills to bring new hope to patients and build trust in the improved healthcare system”, notes Jelena Perovic, Lead Biomedical Engineer. A personalized solution is the approach UNOPS biomedical engineers focus on during the definition and selection of adequate technology to provide patients suffering from oncology related diseases with high quality healthcare services. By understanding the full context of how, to whom, and by whom health services are delivered, the team ensures healthcare workers receive the right tools to provide timely and effective care in modern, patient-centered facilities. “When we build infrastructure, it has to work for everyone, which means thinking about what both men and women need, and female engineers are key to this”, says Nesrin Altunkaya, Lead Architect. Healthcare infrastructure impacts entire communities, thus infrastructure and design is another area where UNOPS recognizes female engineers. “These projects are about more than just building; they’re about creating a foundation for long-term development along with inclusivity. I believe that gender diversity brings impact that leaves no one behind”, - adds Munisa Sadiyeva, Associate Architect. Few people know that along with site infrastructure assessments, there is a special attention to a study of the beneficiaries and main users of the facilities. UNOPS experts ensure that assessment considers gender-specific infrastructure needs, including satisfaction of and access levels to healthcare facility infrastructure for men and women, as well as intersecting factors such as age, ethnicity, socio-economic status, and disability status. All these factors influence the utilization of infrastructure services by men and women differently. “Women feel women. While designing, I always prioritize safety and accessibility of facilities, privacy and dignity of workers and inclusivity of patients - the aspects that directly affect the well-being of female beneficiaries of our projects”, explains Dinara Botirova, architect, member of UNOPS Design Management team. The role of female engineers extends beyond their technical expertise. Firstly, they ensure that gender-responsiveness is integral to all their projects, secondly, they serve as inspiring role models for future generations. “Knowing that my work inspires my niece to pursue a STEM education fills me with joy. I am proud of the importance of my own journey and the impact I can have on the next generation of female engineers”, says Adelya Ishmuxamedova, Civil Engineer. Presence and success of women in a traditionally male-dominated field demonstrate to young girls that they too can pursue and excel in STEM careers. It breaks down stereotypes, challenges and changes societal norms, and promotes gender equality in professional environments. “Empowering women with the right tools and opportunities doesn't just empower individuals; it empowers entire projects. Their insights, shaped by their lived experiences, double our capacity to deliver more inclusive outcomes”, - Dax Julius Dayanan, Head of Infrastructure Service Delivery. Integrating gender diversity into engineering is not just a matter of fairness; it’s a strategic necessity. Women bring unique perspectives and ideas that consider and address specific needs of women, as they inherently understand the experiences and challenges faced by other women. In the context of UNOPS projects, their contributions are vital for creating inclusive healthcare facilities and resilient systems that cater to all community members. *In Uzbekistan, UNOPS is supporting the Ministry of Health in procuring and delivering highly specialized medical, diagnostic, radiological and ICT equipment, to significantly contribute to improved access and quality oncological healthcare services for local communities in 14 regional locations across Uzbekistan.Since 2022, UNOPS is working closely with the Sanitary-Epidemiological Welfare and Public Health Committee (SES) to strengthen Uzbekistan’s preparedness systems for future epidemics and is implementing the project to upgrade 54 existing laboratory and treatment facilities across the country through infrastructure works, procurement of diagnostic equipment and supplies, and ICT-based national surveillance and monitoring system.
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Story
06 April 2024
World Health Day 2024: how UNOPS ensures "My Health, My Right" through its projects in Uzbekistan
For Uzbekistan, it aligns with national development priorities and goals, highlighting health as a critical driver for societal advancement and achieving sustainable development. To support health initiatives, UNOPS has embarked on a project* partnering with the Government of Uzbekistan to upgrade the Sanitary and Epidemiological Committee (SES) laboratory facilities nationwide through infrastructure renovations and the procurement of essential diagnostic equipment and supplies. Bridging these undertakings with health rights, this article discusses how the project not only addresses immediate healthcare challenges but also embodies the key elements of health rights: availability, accessibility, acceptability, and quality. Availability refers to the need for a sufficient quantity of functioning health facilities, goods, and services. To ensure these are available to all without any discrimination, it is essential to invest in quality healthcare infrastructure and the training of healthcare professionals, ensuring that both urban and rural populations have equal access to them. The UNOPS intervention in Uzbekistan supports the availability of healthcare services by upgrading laboratory facilities across the country, ensuring that all 13 regions have access to enhanced health infrastructure and diagnostic capabilities. By procuring essential diagnostic equipment and supplies, and establishing an ICT-based national surveillance and monitoring system, this project aims to improve the capacity of healthcare providers to offer quality care but also strengthens the government's ability to effectively monitor and respond to future pandemics such as COVID-19. Accessibility in healthcare means that facilities, goods, and services must be accessible to everyone. They are within safe physical reach for everyone, including vulnerable or marginalized groups, and are economically affordable. It also includes the right to access and share health information securely, without unauthorized disclosure, and mandates non-discriminatory access to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, have equal opportunity to receive healthcare services. Through the project, UNOPS enhances healthcare accessibility by ensuring that any construction or renovation of infrastructure accommodates all categories of patients across all regions. This overlaps with economic accessibility improvements - having access to essential services within their own districts, there is no need for costly and time-consuming travel to regional-level facilities for patients. The integration of an ICT-based surveillance and monitoring system further supports timely and equitable access to diagnosis and treatment, ensuring a responsive healthcare system for all. Acceptability relates to respect for medical ethics, culturally appropriate, and sensitivity to gender. It requires that health facilities, goods, and services cater to the specific needs of diverse population groups and in accordance with international standards of medical ethics for confidentiality and informed consent. By modernizing and renovating laboratory facilities to be culturally sensitive and accessible to all, including gender-specific accommodations where necessary, UNOPS ensures that the infrastructure itself meets the diverse needs and expectations of the community. Additionally, UNOPS' capacity-building initiatives offer specialized training for healthcare workers, emphasizing the importance of cultural competency, ethical medical practices, and patient-centered care, including respect and confidentiality of information related to each individual being treated. This ensures that the services delivered are respectful, acceptable, and tailored to the unique cultural context of each community served. Quality entails that health facilities, goods, and services must be medically appropriate and of good quality. This element emphasizes the importance of skilled medical personnel, scientifically approved hospital equipment, safe and clean water, and adequate sanitation. UNOPS is committed to provide services that are not only available and accessible but meet a standard of quality that ensures effective and safe treatment and patient satisfaction. The project implemented in Uzbekistan ensures it covers all aspects of health care, including patient safety, effectiveness, patient-centeredness, timeliness, efficiency, and equity. The project's benefits extend across multiple layers of the country's healthcare landscape. It promises to provide the people and healthcare providers with access to quality and accessible healthcare services, as well as enhanced facilities and resources. Eventually, it will bolster the capacity of government agencies under the Ministry of Health to safeguard the health and well-being of the Uzbek population.___* Within the project on Emergency Response to COVID-19, UNOPS is supporting the Government of Uzbekistan in enhancing the country's resilience against the COVID-19 pandemic and future epidemics. To achieve this, UNOPS is supporting the implementation of a $160.7 million loan from ADB and AIIB to equip and refurbish the national laboratory system, establish an ICT-based national surveillance and monitoring system, and expand treatment capacity for COVID-19 and future epidemiological cases.
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26 January 2024
How UNOPS drives Sustainable Development through effective procurement practices
“Effective public procurement underpins nearly all sustainable development activities. Every Global Goal, every mission, every operation. Without efficient and sustainable purchasing of goods and services, addressing the world’s problems would be impossible,” says the UNOPS Director of Procurement Group, Ms. Anne-Claire Howard.UNOPS is a global leader in procurement services, employing best practices to drive sustainable development. In Uzbekistan, UNOPS has been implementing various projects*, aiming to enhance healthcare services through sustainable procurement practices. Procurement is deemed sustainable when it integrates requirements, specifications, and criteria accounting for environmental protection, social progress, and economic development. UNOPS experts are committed to implementing these practices within the projects in Uzbekistan, focusing on sustainable materials, social well-being, health, and safety policies, energy efficiency, promoting local employment opportunities, women-owned businesses, and labour rights. By evaluating the feasibility and impact of emerging technologies, such as advanced imaging systems, and smart healthcare management systems, UNOPS experts guide medical facilities toward transformative advancements. This fosters innovation, and drives progress in the healthcare sector, optimising working conditions and enhancing overall job satisfaction of healthcare workers. In turn, by ensuring the availability of sustainable and efficient medical equipment, patients benefit from improved diagnosis, treatment, and overall quality of care. Sustainable equipment promotes better patient results, reduces the risk of complications, builds trust in their healthcare providers, and enhances patient satisfaction. UNOPS is determined to build market capacity in developing countries, and promote women-owned businesses and micro, small or medium-sized enterprises as a way to foster sustainable development. Building a local supply base not only contributes to the economic development of the countries UNOPS operates in, but also advances sustainability initiatives by minimising transport-related emissions. UNOPS stays committed to environmental protection, paving the way for a greener future, where sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand. For the projects in Uzbekistan, UNOPS prioritises equipment procurement that incorporates energy-efficient systems, reducing operational costs and minimising environmental impact, so that healthcare facilities can reduce maintenance costs and allocate resources more efficiently. Transparency and integrity are at the core of UNOPS sustainable procurement practices. By establishing open and clear rules, UNOPS ensures fairness in the procurement process that fosters healthy competition among suppliers, allowing for quality and competitive responses from the local and international market place. For UNOPS, gender-responsive procurement serves as a potent tool to achieve socio-economic objectives, bridging wage gaps, creating employment opportunities for women, and mitigating gender-related labour imbalances. To implement this approach, UNOPS relies on three key pillars:Incorporating gender considerations into procurement processes.Ensuring an inclusive procurement process that does not discriminate against women.Procuring goods, services, and works that positively contribute to gender equality and the empowerment of women.Additionally, UNOPS recognizes the significance of inclusion. It involves procuring accessible goods and services to ensure that everyone, including persons with disabilities, can participate, making the procurement process itself accessible, and collaborating with disability-inclusive suppliers to promote inclusive and equitable participation in procurement activities.Recent Visit of Director of UNOPS Procurement GroupA recent visit (12-16 January 2024) of the Director of UNOPS Procurement Group to Uzbekistan, Ms. Anne-Claire Howard, highlighted the organisation's commitment to SDGs acceleration in the country. During this visit, UNOPS’ key stakeholders and partners engaged in discussions on how UNOPS' expertise in procurement can further advance sustainable development goals and the national priorities in Uzbekistan. UNOPS has established itself as a reliable long-term partner for the Government of Uzbekistan, actively supporting the implementation of healthcare reform efforts. With a shared vision for positive change and progress, the combination of UNOPS' global technical expertise and local presence, positions UNOPS as a reliable development partner, capable of effectively addressing emerging needs and delivering results that positively impact communities. By focusing on sustainable procurement practices, UNOPS aims to serve people better, protect the environment, build trust, drive equality, ensure human rights, and boost economic growth. These principles align with the organisation's overarching mission of advancing sustainable development and accelerating the achievement of the SDGs in each country, UNOPS works.___* Within the project on Emergency Response to COVID-19, UNOPS is supporting the Government of Uzbekistan in enhancing the country's resilience against the COVID-19 pandemic and potential future epidemics. To achieve this, UNOPS is using a $160.7 million loan from ADB and AIIB to equip and refurbish the national laboratory system, establish an ICT-based national surveillance and monitoring system, and expand treatment capacity for COVID-19 and other epidemiological cases.The Phase II of the project on Modernization of Oncological Institutions of the Republic of Uzbekistan, financed by a $64.8 million loan from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), is focused on strengthening the preparedness of the healthcare system in Uzbekistan through preventing and treating oncological cases in an effective and timely manner. Within this project, UNOPS is responsible for procuring and providing a range of medical, laboratory, radiological, and ICT equipment.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Press Release
21 September 2024
Ensuring population health safety: main objective of the national action plan
The National Action Plan, designed for a five-year period (2024–2028), is based on the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan (2022-2026), the 2022 Joint External Evaluation (JEE), and the 2022 IHR States Parties Self-Assessment Annual Report (SPAR). Its strategic goal is to enhance Uzbekistan's preparedness to respond more effectively to health emergencies by strengthening the core capacities outlined in the IHR (2005).“Collaborating with colleagues from relevant ministries, departments, and the World Health Organization has led to the creation of a comprehensive National Action Plan for Public Health Security. However, much work remains to ensure we are better prepared for emerging health threats and challenges,” said Dr Bakhodir Yusupaliev, the Chairman of the Committee for Sanitary and Epidemiological Welfare and Public Health.“The National Action Plan for Health Security is a crucial instrument for uniting sectors and stakeholders to fortify Uzbekistan’s public health system and respond effectively to health emergencies. This Plan underscores the government’s commitment to building a resilient and sustainable health system for the people of Uzbekistan”, - stated Dr Asheena Khalakdina, WHO Representative in Uzbekistan.The action plan was developed with technical assistance from the World Health Organization (WHO) and financial support from USAID.
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Press Release
31 August 2024
End of Mission Statement: Visit of the Special Rapporteur on the right to adequate housing to Uzbekistan Mr. Balakrishnan Rajagopal
Today, I conclude my 12-day mission. I had the opportunity to visit Tashkent, Jizzak, Zaamin, Sirdarya, Samarkand and Bukhara, and meet with the Secretary of the National Security Council, two Deputy Prime Ministers, senior Government officials at local and regional level, members of the Senate and National Assembly, Ombudspersons, Judges and representatives of other non-judicial complaints procedures.I am also grateful for the dialogue I had with civil society representatives, lawyers, bloggers and others who report on housing issues, victims of forced evictions, natural disasters and women and children that had to flee their home due to domestic violence. I also observed the physical transformations and demolitions taking place across the country. I am very grateful to all who shared information with me. Urbanization as a major challenge to the right to adequate housingGovernment officials and all people I spoke to share the view that the country has been on a major wave of urbanization during the last several years, but they differ quite a bit in how they assess its success. Several people, in particular victims who have lost their homes due to demolitions, perceive urbanization as a machinery that they have little input in, that often rolls over their rights without a chance for meaningful relief, while most State officials perceive urbanization as a successful effort that has resulted in improved living standards for the population. What is clear to me is that this significant gap in perceptions, must be addressed proactively in order to change the manner urbanization is carried out into a people-centered process and ensure that it is a legitimate effort in human rights and legal terms. The main causes of this perception gap lie in, an organizational and societal culture of consensus and a bias towards positive reporting, lack of meaningful participation in the legal and policy process, limited awareness of constitutional, national and international human rights law by local and regional officials resulting in material breaches of existing laws and lack of effective monitoring and implementation of existing laws at the higher level.Protection of the right to adequate housing in law and practiceI strongly welcome the new Constitution of Uzbekistan’s recognition of the right to adequate housing. The constitution also includes provisions aimed at protecting the home from unlawful interference, the right to property and provides to all persons the right to approach the courts for remedies, which also assures the right to approach international bodies for protection of human rights. These provisions are very welcome guarantees for the protection of human rights, and I applaud them. . However, these provisions should not give the impression that these rights are realized in practice. There is a large gap between law on paper and law in action. Of course, the new Constitution was adopted only last year and many laws regulating the housing sector have been passed only very recently, and thus there can be a time lag in implementation. But it means that the negative consequences of the rapid urbanization, including forced evictions and arbitrary expropriations, which started many years earlier, and speeded up since 2017, remain with us, and that many of its victims have not yet obtained relief from these new laws and the Constitution. As of today, the right to adequate housing remains mostly a paper tiger against violations by the state or powerful corporate actors including developers. I also strongly encourage the Government of Uzbekistan to ratify as soon as possible the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, which will allow the examination of individual complaints. This will greatly enhance the capacity and understanding of the judiciary.Lack of effective remedies through courts and non-judicial complaints mechanismsThe courts in the country do not have a strong record of enforcing the new Constitution and national laws aimed at protecting the right to adequate housing. The culture of seeking remedies through courts is itself very slowly developing, while access to justice is also limited by the small size of the legal profession, and limited legal aid and legal representation for vulnerable individuals. While there are many non-judicial complaints mechanism available for residents, such as the Ombudspersons Office, the General Prosecutors Office or the People’s Audience of the President, I have met too many individuals who submitted complaints to those bodies complaints without having their housing rights matters solved in a manner that would be satisfactory from a human rights point of view. When individuals file complaints to these mechanisms, they receive acknowledgments but rarely are the cases actually followed-up and resolved. Only in few instances these mechanism have been able to ensure effective and timely relief. In effect, all this adds up to having no meaningful and effective remedies when the right to adequate housing is violated.Improving judicial independenceJudicial independence remains a challenge. An overwhelming majority of cases involving developers and residents seem to be decided in favor of developers, especially by appellate courts. The perception among the public is that the judiciary is not independent. Despite the recent reforms to improve the independence of the judiciary including the shifting of appointments to the Supreme Judicial Council, there is a culture of compliance with perceived State interests in the judiciary, which used to be under the control of the Ministry of Justice until some years ago. I am disturbed to learn also about legal provisions such as article 231(1) of the Criminal Code, which permits the imprisonment of judges for rendering “unjust decisions”. I am aware that for example one judge has been sentenced to four years of imprisonment who appears to have ruled too many times against state authorities. These provisions are contrary to the independent functioning of courts – if judges make mistakes, whether the outcome is seen as fair or not - appellate courts are supposed to correct them. In my view this provision in the Criminal Code should be removed as soon as possible.Limited awareness of constitutional and human rights law The legal protections offered by the constitution are useless when they are not fully known, understood and demanded by the population at large, as well as the officials of the State, including at the Mahalla level. Rights have to be demanded to become meaningful. Awareness of human rights law and the new constitutional protections should be further strengthened at all levels of Government, in the judiciary and for the general public so they become users, and not just recipients of rights. Establish effective grievance mechanisms and judicial oversight over corporate actorsPublic and judicial oversight over corporate actors in the housing sector must be further strengthened. While Uzbekistan has many complaints bodies, none of them appear to have the competence to address human rights abuses by corporate actors such as developers in conformity with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. In this context I welcome that the Ministry of Construction and Housing has developed a rating of all construction companies to assess the quality of the housing they build. It is important that the rating of construction companies is published and widely shared through media, and incorporates also assessments of construction companies by persons acquiring housing, their respect of labor and environmental standards, and their record in relation to forced evictions and in ensuring fair and timely compensation in case of expropriation.Policy and institutional issues regarding housingUzbekistan is indeed facing significant population growth, with an annual estimated population growth of almost a million people. There is, therefore, a strong case to increase the supply of new housing. However, a housing policy based on supply-side interventions alone is unlikely to yield results that will guarantee the right to adequate housing. Demand side interventions in housing such as affordable mortgage rates without annual rate variation (in Uzbekistan, rates vary), support for real income levels through regional economic development strategies that link housing with job creation, are all important. These factors are not emphasized in the current approach to housing in Uzbekistan. There is an excessive faith in supply-side solutions which benefits only contractors as they stand to benefit from all the new construction. There is as well a serious risk that excessive housing construction may leave housing unoccupied, producing ‘ghost cities’ as witnessed in some countries. Mahallas are at the front lines of ensuring the right to adequate housing especially for vulnerable groups, and can potentially raise legal and human rights awareness at this critical moment. I recommend the inclusion of an additional member to the ‘Mahalla Seven’ who can be a community justice worker, combining paralegal work, with specific focus on housing and land acquisition.Improving legal tenant protection in rental accommodationWhile most residents in Uzbekistan are homeowners, the percentage of the population living in rental accommodation in towns is increasing. There is a need for a tenant protection law to ensure that renters enjoy security of tenure and are not subjected to evictions without cause, to provide them with legal representation in eviction procedures before courts, to protect them from unfair or arbitrary rent increases, and to ensure that the homes rented out are properly maintained and meet adequacy standards.In this context, appropriate regulation of platforms offering short term rentals such as Air BnB or booking.com is also necessary, since excessive penetration of these rental companies can have an adverse impact on availability of affordable housing in attractive city locations for the population. Since Bukhara and Samarkand have plans to rapidly increase the number of tourists, it is important that they mitigate the adverse consequences of short-term rentals through appropriate regulation.Displacement and forced evictions in cultural heritage sitesThere is worrying trend that homes of local residents in city centers are turned into tourist accommodation or demolished for new museums, in particular in cities such as Samarkand and Bukhara which contain a vast treasure of cultural heritage of mankind. Economic and development-induced displacement of the local population including destruction of retail shops or small-scale industry producing traditional heritage products is a concern undermining livelihood opportunities of local communities that directly affects the right to adequate housing. It is my impression that UNESCO and local authorities have given insufficient attention to the right to adequate housing of the people living close to or within heritage sites, and failed to prevent demolishing of housing stock, forced evictions and irregular construction within protected areas. This is of deep concern, as it appears that UNESCO and its World Heritage Committee have failed to ensure that international human rights law is respected in protected areas in Uzbekistan, while they have decided to host the next UNESCO meeting in Samarkand in 2025. I urge UNESCO to rethink carefully what guarantees and concrete measures it needs to see to hold this meeting.Demolitions and access to alternative housingIn most cases, demolitions of homes ordered by the local authorities proceeds too rapidly, without adequate notice – sometimes only for a few days – and proceeds in a manner which is not consistent with procedural norms such as avoiding demolitions when personal property is still inside the house or having an authorized government official present during demolition. In addition, demolitions have been conducted in cases even when individuals have obtained orders protecting their homes from courts. Demolitions are also conducted while alternative housing has not been agreed to by the owners while they are in the process of contesting demolition decisions. In one case that was deeply shocking I spoke to an old couple, whose house has been reduced to rubble in Samarkand, and they continue to live in the midst of that rubble. With tears in their eyes, they struggled to describe their trauma, and humiliation. Such cases are examples of a broader problems: the machinery of urbanization is too fast and relentless and shows no mercy to even older persons. This is a serious and grave violation of the right to adequate housing and other rights, which must be remedied rapidly. It also shows that forced evictions and demolitions need to be better governed by laws consistent with human rights that are actually enforced.Expropriation for commercial purposes camouflaged as public needThe 2022 law on expropriation makes it clear that it applies only to long possessory rights, and not to land plots owned by individuals. The law also specifies that expropriation for public needs includes public uses or benefits, but does not allow the expropriation of land for commercial purposes. Despite this strict law, many expropriations and housing demolitions carried out in Uzbekistan raise questions about whether the land is expropriated for private commercial interests of developers and construction companies or for public benefit. The replacement of substandard housing stock with new housing may under certain circumstances be considered as a legitimate public need. Such new housing must, however, be social housing and not luxury housing for upper income groups. And if entire neighborhoods are demolished and new housing or commercial infrastructure is built on the same land at high profit without inclusion of any housing units that would be affordable for the people who previously lived in that area, it is highly questionable if such housing demolitions and expropriation can be considered justifiable under human rights law. It is certainly not justifiable under the 2022 law. I would like to recall here that the right to adequate housing, now recognized in the Constitution, may only be subject to limitations that are in conformity with the nature of this right and solely for the purpose of promoting the general welfare of the society. Uzbekistan should therefore consider ceasing expropriations that are solely or primarily for commercial purposes, and if such expropriation must be done for affordable housing, amend the 2022 law to permit this. The 2022 law cannot be misused or misinterpreted to cover any urban development project, including those that contradict the very nature of the right to adequate housing. Land rightsWhile private property including in land, is protected in the Constitution, land by itself is not. Land is more than property – while property is about monetary value, land is about more than that and includes cultural and personal meaning and value, as well as its contribution to the realization of other human rights including the right to food. Many people of Uzbekistan own land – close to 48% in rural areas. When their lands are taken along with their homes, for economic development and urbanization, they do not enjoy a guarantee of land-for-land as compensation, nor is there an estimation of the losses of a non-monetary nature. The Constitution refers to ‘losses’ while calculating compensation in its article 47, which should plausibly include non-material losses. There is a need to clarify this and recognize and protect land rights in law. The construction of new housing is also confronted with the shortage of adequate land and creative alternatives for land and housing policy. I would encourage city authorities and Mahallas to explore the use of land banks or land pooling arrangements. Community land trusts or other public, non-governmental public/collective ownership or management of land, should be recognized by law. Non-profit housing cooperatives and associations must be recognized to develop housing for themselves.Issues with CompensationThe 2022 law requires that all expropriation for public needs must be carried out with the notarized written consent of the owner and must include compensation, which means reimbursement for losses, in monetary or other forms. However, in practice, many individuals were arbitrarily evicted even before the 2023 Constitution and the 2022 law were enacted, and they continue to struggle to assert their right to compensation. While some have been offered new homes in apartment blocks, these may be located far from work, schools, and small vegetable gardens that they previously relied on. Additionally, these individuals face difficulties recovering losses incurred during the lengthy battle for compensation.As the government plans to regularize housing that was irregularly built before 2018, it must also ensure justice for those who were inadequately expropriated and compensated in the past. While the draft regularization law may benefit many homeowners, it could also result in impunity for those in the construction sector who failed to uphold building standards, arbitrarily evicted people, and failed to compensate those who lost their homes. In some cases, promised new homes were never constructed or completed, leaving those evicted waiting for years or forced to pay high rents.Furthermore, repeatedly passing laws to regularize irregularly constructed housing may set a harmful precedent, creating the expectation that one can ignore the law and wait for the next amnesty to avoid consequences.The law on compensation also fails to adequately address non-material and emotional losses that often accompany the loss and demolition of homes. For children, such experiences can be particularly traumatic. Using market value as the basis for compensation is insufficient to account for these intangible losses. Additionally, there are concerns that the valuation of land and homes is not always conducted by companies that are sufficiently independent from government and corporate interests, which may seek to minimize compensation payments.I recommend that the State engages in a dialogue with civil society representatives on issues relating to participatory urban planning, aimed at preventing forced evictions, arbitrary housing demolitions, improving access to justice in such matters and ensuring adequate and fair compensation in accordance with national and international law standards that could be facilitated by UN agencies and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.Right to informationUzbekistan recognizes the right to information in the context of the right to a healthy environment in its Constitution, and the Law on Guarantees and Freedom of Access to Information provides this right as well in all other spheres. This is highly laudable and I urge the government of Uzbekistan to build on this and become a party to the Aarhus Convention to further strengthen this commitment. The right to information is a fundamental requirement for transparency and an informed citizenry which can only make democracy work and bring accountability for human rights violations. Lack of participatory town planningUzbekistan is still largely characterized by a top-down approach to town planning, where urban planners, local government officials and construction companies implement projects that have been developed by well-intended experts behind closed doors, but with very little input by the population living in the area in the design, adjustment and implementation of urban renewal projects. For most cities, Masterplans are still lacking which has contributed as well to haphazard urban development. The intended development of 68 masterplans for most urban settlements offers an opportunity to ensure that such plans and urban renewal projects included in them are developed in a participatory manner. In this context, I want to clarify that digitalization is not the same as participation: making plans accessible online is not enough. Instead, community level meetings must be held, including at the Mahalla level and opportunity to ask questions and provide meaningful input must be recognized. I am convinced that urban upgrading that keeps historic layouts and socio-economic fabrics intact while providing additional income possibilities is possible in Uzbekistan, as I have personally witnessed in the Gulbazaar Mahalla in Tashkent. Careful and participatory urban development in all stages of design and implementation should however not be only a model for areas that have a high potential for tourism as in Gulbazaar. Human rights defenders, victims and civic spaceI have been reassured by the Government of Uzbekistan that no one in Government or civil society who provided information to me will be subjected to any intimidation or reprisal. However, civic space in Uzbekistan continues to be restricted, and many individuals that I met with expressed fear that they may be intimidated or described recent instances where they were indeed harassed by the authorities for complaining about or reporting on housing rights issues.I regret that I was not able to visit a blogger and housing rights advocate, currently interned in a psychiatric institution and reportedly subjected to non-consensual psychotropic drug treatment. I call on the Government of Uzbekistan for an independent assessment of her health condition by international medical experts and ensure that she has unhindered regular access to her lawyer and also be allowed to visit close family members since she is not convicted of any crime.Social housing and the mortgage system for low-income householdsThe privatization of public housing after independence has resulted in a situation in which there is a lack of social housing available for the most vulnerable groups. It is estimated that less than 0.5 % of all households live today in public housing. The public housing stock in many cities remains too low and consideration should be given to increasing this form of housing through non-state, public forms of housing including housing cooperatives. The existing subsidies and ‘soft-loan’ based mortgage schemes expose mortgage holders to significant risk, as the interest rates on subsidized loans are not fixed and can fluctuate. In adverse financial conditions, this can render housing unaffordable, lead to unsustainable private debt, and result in a wave of evictions. This issue has been observed worldwide, particularly as housing markets become more financialized, as seen in many Western countries. Uzbekistan should avoid following this model. Greater attention must be given to regulating mortgage markets now to better protect mortgage holders, especially against the risk of eviction.Women and other groupsI also met a number of women victims of domestic violence living in shelters, often with their children. They have been forced to flee their homes as their husbands became violent, although they were also registered to stay in the same homes. Family law should be amended, consistent with the aim of the new 2023 Law on domestic violence, to provide for possession rights to women victims of domestic violence and their children, in case of filing of a complaint of domestic violence to the police. The husbands, rather than the women and their children, must leave their homes but must be provided with alternative housing by the authorities if they require it. Women own only 28% of housing, and according to the ILO only 46.6 percent of them participated in the labor market in 2022.While I do not have time to comment about other vulnerable groups, let me say briefly that I am concerned about the condition of the Luli minority, which remains marginalized and often spatially segregated. Persons with disabilities face enormous barriers, not only in terms of physical access to buildings and public spaces, but also in terms of access to employment which affects housing access. ConclusionI will provide additional details and recommendations on all the issues that emerged during my visit, including those I mentioned, in my full report to the UN Human Rights Council, which I will present in March 2025. In the meantime, I urge the government of Uzbekistan to fully implement a rights-based approach to all of the above-mentioned housing issues, making sure that the new rights and the laws become meaningful for all, including the vulnerable and marginalized individuals and communities.I would like to conclude by reiterating my heartfelt appreciation to all people who took the time to share their views with me during my visit. I see the new Uzbekistan as a remarkable story of transition from a largely state-controlled society and economy with a closed system, to a more open system with more freedom and exercise of rights. I have great admiration and respect for the cultural and social traditions and heritage of the people of this this country. Uzbekistan can be a major anchor for peace, human rights and justice in this troubled world, not just for Central Asia, but for the entire world. I wish the people and the leaders of Uzbekistan my warmest wishes and greetings as I conclude this visit.
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