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.