Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  An international conference titled "Using the Demographic Dividend in Uzbekistan: Realizing the Potential of Women and Youth through Human Capital Development" was held in Tashkent. The event was organized by UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund in Uzbekistan), the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Committee on Family and Women, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and the Scientific Research Institute of Family and Gender.

The conference brought together leaders of international organizations and diplomatic missions, representatives of ministries and agencies, as well as international and national experts to discuss strategies for leveraging Uzbekistan’s demographic dividend.

Uzbekistan is entering a demographic window of opportunity, where the working-age population significantly exceeds the non-working population. This period is expected to last until the 2050s. The conference aimed to highlight key areas for utilizing the demographic dividend and integrating them into national programs. Participants emphasized the importance of empowering youth and women as key drivers of economic development and called for promoting inclusive growth through innovative policy approaches and national development programs.

Discussions focused on supporting youth, creating opportunities for the potential of women and older adults, allowing these key groups to fully contribute to the country’s economic growth. During the exchange of views between policymakers, experts, and stakeholders, practical recommendations were formulated to enhance the capabilities of these significant demographic groups, ensuring sustainable and equitable economic growth.

Special attention was given to key challenges such as unemployment, the gap between formal and informal employment, and gender inequality in the labor market. Participants discussed the barriers faced by vulnerable groups, particularly women, youth, and older adults, and strategies for strengthening human capital.

Dr. Nigina Abaszade, the UNFPA Permanent Representative in Uzbekistan, emphasized the importance of seizing the unique demographic moment. She stated: "The demographic window of opportunity in Uzbekistan offers a unique chance to accelerate the country’s sustainable development. By investing in the empowerment of women and youth, Uzbekistan can transform this demographic shift into a powerful source of economic and social progress. Women, given equal rights, can drive productivity growth and innovation, while youth with relevant knowledge and skills can inject fresh energy into the labor market. This conference is more than just a discussion—it is a call for decisive action and policy development that will allow everyone to contribute to inclusive growth and prosperity in Uzbekistan, leaving no one behind."

The conference also served as a platform for high-level dialogue, bringing together government representatives, the private sector, the academic community, and civil society to discuss demographic sustainability and trends. The event concluded with the development of a comprehensive final document containing specific recommendations on transforming demographic opportunities into sustainable economic growth, improving healthcare and education systems, and creating jobs that meet the needs of the growing population.

The conference was attended by representatives of the Government of Uzbekistan, the Senate, and the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, ministers, the private sector, academic community, civil society, and international organizations.

The conference highlighted Uzbekistan’s commitment to addressing demographic issues and using opportunities for ensuring sustainable development and improving the quality of life for its citizens. This event was held as part of the implementation of the Presidential Decree No. PP-401 of December 21, 2023.