Uzbekistan has announced plans to allocate 500bn soums ($39mn) from its national budget in 2024 to reduce poverty and enhance social protection for vulnerable populations. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev shared this commitment during the first session of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis following the recent parliamentary elections on November 19.
Tackling Poverty with Measurable Progress
Four years ago, 23% of Uzbekistan’s population earned below the poverty line. However, strategic measures have provided 3.5mn citizens with income opportunities, reducing poverty by 11% during this period. By 2027, the government aims to lower the poverty rate by an additional 7%, emphasizing targeted assistance and systemic reforms.
Introduction of Social Card System
From January 2024, Uzbekistan rolled out a unified "Social Card" system. This initiative consolidates 65 types of social services and assistance, along with approximately 50 benefits, to streamline support for citizens. Special provisions address the needs of individuals in challenging circumstances, including those who have lost income or are battling health issues. To solidify these efforts, the Law on social insurance will be introduced.
The government also plans to expand social services to improve the integration of individuals with disabilities into society.
A Nationwide Movement Against Poverty
Poverty reduction has become a cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s socio-economic agenda. In September 2024, a presidential decree, set ambitious goals, including lifting 500,000 people out of poverty by the end of 2024 and 1mn more by 2025.
Building on these initiatives, the "From Poverty to Prosperity" program will be implemented, encouraging individual responsibility while creating opportunities for citizens to unlock their potential. A dedicated republican commission will oversee the program’s rollout.
President Mirziyoyev highlighted the importance of improving neighborhood infrastructure as a critical factor in combating poverty. At a videoconference meeting on September 11, he stated,
“No matter how much we help people, if we do not improve the conditions of neighborhoods, poverty will not be reduced.”
To address these challenges, $1.6bn will be allocated in 2025 for neighborhood development, sourced from various funds. Among the planned expenditures:
- 1.2 trillion soums ($94mn) for installing water pumps and solar panels in 300 priority neighborhoods.
- 2 trillion soums ($157mn) to resolve infrastructure issues, including electricity, roads, and internet access, in 500 additional neighborhoods.
President Mirziyoyev emphasized Uzbekistan's ambitious goals of joining the ranks of countries with above-average incomes. Speaking at a recent meeting in Samarkand, he reaffirmed the government's commitment to transforming Uzbekistan into a prosperous and socially inclusive nation.
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