Uzbekistan has adopted a new presidential decree aimed at strengthening support for women, setting ambitious targets for employment, education, and entrepreneurship. The decree on measures to further improve the family and women's support system outlines key initiatives to be implemented throughout 2025.
As part of the government’s efforts, 2mn women will be provided with employment opportunities across various sectors. Additionally, 250,000 women will receive training in professional skills and entrepreneurship, enabling them to enter the workforce or start their own businesses. The decree also aims to increase access to higher education for 250,000 women, ensuring broader opportunities for academic and professional growth.
Beyond employment and education, the government plans to support 50,000 socially vulnerable women by organizing motivational seminars. These programs will focus on improving their health through sanatorium rehabilitation while also offering workshops to develop their entrepreneurial skills.
To further strengthen women’s entrepreneurship, the HAMROH program will introduce several financial support measures starting May 1, 2025. Under this initiative, grants of up to UZS 50mn ($3,865) will be awarded to 1,000 mentor entrepreneurs who assist women in launching green projects, IT ventures, or businesses that employ at least five women.
In addition, women with a positive credit history will be eligible for unsecured loans of up to UZS 100mn ($7,730), making it easier for them to start or expand their businesses. To facilitate equipment purchases, the Entrepreneurship Development Company will provide credit guarantees for equipment bought by women entrepreneurs, ensuring financial security until the equipment is delivered.
In 2024, Uzbekistan made strides in women's employment and economic empowerment. Over 251,400 women secured permanent jobs, while 54,500 participated in public works. Additionally, 177,100 women received vocational training, and 147,300 completed entrepreneurship programs.
Financial support played a key role, with 55,100 women receiving UZS 289bn ($22.4mn) in subsidies, and 206,600 women benefiting from UZS 3.472 trillion ($268.7mn) in preferential loans to start or expand businesses.
Uzbekistan also improved its ranking in the 2024 Gender Equality and Governance Index (GEGI), climbing from 103rd place in 2022 to 52nd among 158 countries, reflecting progress in gender inclusion and governance.
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