Uzbekistan will continue to work on the full realization of women’s leadership potential

Articles , / Sunday, December 15th, 2024

Uzbekistan’s history is rich with stories of courageous and knowledgeable women who played significant roles in governance, education, and literature. Women like Tumaris, Saraimulkkhanum, Gavharshadbegim, and Nadirabegim excelled in public administration, military arts, and charitable work. Historical records reveal their influence in the Bukhara Emirate, Kokand, and Khiva Khanates.

During the Jadid era, women like Nozimakhanum, the first female publicist, advocated for women’s rights to education and public participation. Journalist Sobira Kholdarova wrote about girls’ education and removing conservative barriers, while Bashorat Mirbabayeva became Uzbekistan’s first female locomotive driver, contributing to the war effort during World War II.

Today, under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan prioritizes women’s socio-political participation and gender equality. National strategies and programs focus on eliminating discrimination and ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, and leadership. The 2030 Strategy for Achieving Gender Equality aims to eliminate gender-based violence and increase women’s representation in leadership roles to 30%.

Recent reforms include the adoption of over 50 legislative acts to protect women’s rights, including the Laws on Guarantees of Equal Rights and Opportunities for Women and Men and Protection from Oppression and Violence (2019). The Constitution guarantees equal rights and opportunities, as outlined in Article 58.

Efforts to boost women’s roles in governance have yielded significant results. In 2017, women held 27% of managerial positions, rising to 35% today. Approximately 2,000 women occupy leadership roles in government and public organizations, with 45 in ministries and 39 in the Presidential Administration. In the 2019 parliamentary elections, women accounted for 32% of the Legislative Chamber and 25% of the Senate. Representation within political parties has also increased from 40% in 2017 to 47% in 2023.

Uzbekistan’s legislative improvements reflect its commitment to gender equality. Amendments to the Electoral Code in 2023 mandate that women comprise at least 40% of candidates in elections, with two out of every five candidates in party lists being women. As a result, 44.7% of candidates in the upcoming elections to the Legislative Chamber are women, the highest in the nation’s history.

These achievements align with Uzbekistan’s adherence to international treaties promoting women’s rights, including the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. National programs such as the 2022-2026 Development Strategy and the National Program for Women’s Participation aim to improve social protection, education, and healthcare for women while increasing their representation in public administration.

Gender-sensitive parliamentary reforms further underscore Uzbekistan’s progress. A dedicated Committee on Women and Gender Equality in the Senate develops policies and oversees legislation to ensure gender equality. Women’s participation in electoral processes has grown significantly, with women comprising 46% of district election commissions and 49% of precinct commissions in 2019.

Uzbekistan’s strides in gender equality have garnered international recognition, showcasing its dedication to empowering women through education, professional training, and leadership opportunities. These efforts are a testament to the nation’s commitment to sustainable development and the full realization of women’s potential.

Zuxra Shadiyeva,
Member of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan