Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Comprehensive Action Program for Implementing the Gender Equality Strategy until 2030 was approved at the fifth plenary session of the Senate of Uzbekistan. During the session, officials reviewed progress in this area and outlined priority tasks for 2025.

Over the past years, 14 regulatory and legal acts have been adopted in Uzbekistan to ensure equal rights and opportunities for men and women. Significant efforts have been made to improve the economic and social conditions of women and enhance their role in political and public life.

At the Academy of Public Administration, 827 women have undergone training in public service professional development programs.

More than 30 female executives have completed advanced training programs abroad, in countries including Austria, the Czech Republic, Türkiye, South Korea, China, and Japan.

Following the 2024 parliamentary elections, the percentage of women in the Senate reached 27%, in the Legislative Chamber—38%, and in local Kengashes—32.5%.

Political parties actively support initiatives to increase women’s engagement, organizing events such as "Women in Politics," "Businesswoman," and the "Online Leadership School" to develop leadership skills and encourage women’s participation in politics.

Special attention is being given to education and research. The El-Yurt Umidi Foundation has allocated 30 additional scholarships for women to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Furthermore, 148 women have received scholarships to study at foreign universities.

Uzbekistan’s gender equality efforts have received high international recognition. The country ranks among the top five fastest-growing nations in the World Bank’s Gender Index. Additionally, Uzbekistan climbed 51 places in the Gender Equality and Governance Index (GEGI), now holding 52nd place.

Despite these achievements, officials noted that some target indicators have not yet been met within the established timeframe. Ministries and agencies have been instructed to intensify efforts in this area.

Key objectives for 2025 include:

Expanding women's economic participation, particularly in high-income sectors such as finance and information technology.

Increasing female representation in the leadership of state-owned enterprises, including boards of directors.

Combating gender stereotypes and promoting gender equality norms among the population.

The approved program also includes measures to align with international standards, strengthen women’s political and legal potential, and support their involvement in science, technology, and innovation. A special focus will be placed on developing women’s skills in scientific research and startup projects.

Senators emphasized that the implementation of this program will contribute to fulfilling both national and international commitments of Uzbekistan. Ensuring the timely execution of tasks and enhancing efforts in this area will be crucial to achieving these goals.

Following the session, the Senate adopted a corresponding resolution.