Driving Sustainable Development forward in Uzbekistan: UNOPS’ commitment under the SDGs spotlight

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) - a beacon of hope in our complex world - are a set of 17 ambitious targeted goals adopted by the United Nations Member States in 2015. These goals, spanning from eradicating poverty and reducing inequality to ensuring environmental sustainability, collectively paint a vision for a more equitable, prosperous, and sustainable future.

Uzbekistan, recognizing the importance of these goals, has confirmed its commitment to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through an inclusive, multi-stakeholder partnership approach. In this journey towards sustainable development, UNOPS plays a pivotal role, working closely with the Government of Uzbekistan and other UN agencies, to turn these goals into concrete results.

The significance of the projects, implemented by UNOPS in Uzbekistan, are deeply rooted in evolving health challenges faced in the country - the persistence of infectious diseases, exacerbated by the recent COVID-19 pandemic, as well as increasing prevalence of cancer cases among the population - necessitates a dynamic approach to healthcare.

Notably, UNOPS’ endeavor to enhance the healthcare system in Uzbekistan centrally focuses on SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. By procuring advanced medical equipment and improving the infrastructure of health facilities, UNOPS aims to provide better access to quality healthcare services. However, as the SDGs are interconnected and interlinked, progress in one goal often impacts progress in others.

By enhancing the country's medical facilities capacity and healthcare infrastructure, the project contributes to the mission of SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure). UNOPS is committed to promoting and integrating sustainability and resilience into infrastructure development. By emphasizing green, sustainable  and resilient infrastructure, UNOPS ensures that projects have a lasting positive impact on the environment and the communities they serve.

To add, the projects’ assessment integrates environmental considerations, reflecting UNOPS’ commitment to environmental protection. By incorporating environmentally friendly measures, such as promoting efficient water usage, advocating for sustainable labware choices, and embracing sustainable lab design, UNOPS demonstrates not only its dedication to the protection of the environment but also paves the way for a greener future, where sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand.

Inclusivity is a fundamental principle of the SDGs, and UNOPS is dedicated to ensuring that projects benefit all segments of the population. In the context of healthcare projects, it reflects the commitment to inclusivity and equitable access to quality healthcare services for both workers and communities, regardless of their gender, background or location.

Ensuring the safety and well-being of health workers is another aspect of the project's commitment and impact that UNOPS pays attention to during project implementation. Measuring regular medical testing, provision of personal protective equipment, establishment of sex-segregated facilities, and capacity-building staff training enhances the welfare of health workers and creates a supportive environment for all personnel involved. UNOPS is also dedicated to building local capacity and skills. This commitment is particularly important in projects with healthcare infrastructure development, where local healthcare professionals will benefit from training and capacity-building programs conducted by UNOPS.

Implementing projects on behalf of its partners, UNOPS is committed to accountability and transparency in its operations. This commitment ensures that project resources are used effectively and project results are accountable to stakeholders. It fosters trust and confidence in the projects' impact.

Collaboration is a core value of UNOPS. Beside working closely with governments, international organizations, and local stakeholders, UNOPS leverages its international expertise in project implementation, fostering synergy in achieving the goals. By working collectively towards shared objectives, the project ensures a more holistic and impactful approach to a healthier and more sustainable future for Uzbekistan.

The SDGs are a global commitment that demands a united effort. For UNOPS, they serve as a guiding light, a common purpose, and a shared responsibility. Implementing projects in Uzbekistan and around the world, UNOPS aligns its expertise, and resources with the SDGs, actively contributing to their achievement.

As we stand on the threshold of the 2030 deadline for the SDGs with just seven years remaining, it is our collective duty to act decisively, building on these foundations to create a world that truly embodies the spirit of the Sustainable Development Goals.