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New Center for Nuclear Medicine in Uzbekistan to be Established

Nuclear Medicine in UzbekistanCancer occurs in roughly 108 people per 100,000 people in Uzbekistan. Compared to the rest of the world, this rate is relatively low. However, Uzbekistan’s cancer mortality rate sits at around 67%, an alarmingly high number. Breast, stomach, and cervical cancers are the most common diagnoses. Luckily, Uzbekistan is working to change this.

New Nuclear Medicine Center in Uzbekistan

The Uzatom Agency, the Uzbek executive authority responsible for implementing state policy for atomic energy use, and the S. Berezin Medical Institute (MIBS) have formed a partnership to open a new medical center to introduce modernized nuclear medicine in Uzbekistan. This project was announced at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum and will be supported by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Founded in 2003, the S. Berezin Medical Institute established networks of diagnostic centers and providing new diagnostic technology and treatment methods. MIBS operates more than 80 centers across 60 cities in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Annually, MIBS provides more than 1.5 million MRI and CT scans, as well as 4,000 examinations every day.

Focusing on Nuclear Medicine in Uzbekistan

The agreement between the Uzatom agency and MIBS aims to focus on implementing nuclear medicine in Uzbekistan as an integral part of improving and modernizing the country’s healthcare system, specifically its oncology care system.

The center will have new, state-of-the-art equipment for numerous procedures and services. It could have technology capable of performing positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography (PET/CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and high-precision radiosurgery systems, like Gamma Knife and CyberKnife. There are also plans to equip the center with a laboratory for the production of radiopharmaceuticals, radioactive drugs used for diagnostic imaging and treatment. Additionally, the center will provide radionuclide therapy and perform isotopic-based diagnostic research.

This new nuclear medicine center will improve upon Uzbekistan’s health care system by providing doctors with the technology to detect cancer earlier than previously possible, track metastases, and treat a patient’s tumors and complex diseases rather than defaulting to surgery and painful operations.

Improving Uzbekistan’s Health Care System

This project is part of Uzbekistan’s goal to modernize its health care system and to start rolling out reforms by 2026.

A series of reforms have already been established in the Syrdarya region of the country. As of September 2023, some achievements of these reforms include the establishment of a state health insurance fund, a more structured primary health care (PHC) system, new provider payments and contracts with health facilities, and advanced e-health information systems for pharmacies.

A report by the World Health Organization (WHO) specifically emphasizes the successes of the PHC reform in Syrdarya. It holds the following accomplishments in high regard: expanded roles and increased autonomy for nurses, greater capacity for family doctors to spend more time on complex cases, evidence-informed clinical guidelines and protocols, and stronger connections between PHC teams and community health organizations.

More Efficient and Organized

The successful execution of these reforms has laid a foundation for a more efficient and organized health care system beyond Syrdarya and across Uzbekistan. With the introduction of centers for nuclear medicine in Uzbekistan and other healthcare reforms in the works, the country is making great progress towards its goal of modernizing its health care system and creating a healthier country.

– Hannah Fruehstorfer

Hannah is based in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Initiatives Fighting Poverty in Uzbekistan

Poverty in UzbekistanThe Uzbek government continues to report progress in tackling poverty in the country. Over the past decade, the Central Asian nation has created new initiatives to improve living standards. According to World Bank estimates, poverty in Uzbekistan has reduced from 36% in 2015 to 17% in 2022. Poverty limits access to education, health care and job security, leading to inadequate housing and starvation. Here are five initiatives tackling poverty in Uzbekistan.

1. Tailored Social Support: “Assistant to the Hokim”

The main strategy to tackle poverty in Uzbekistan is the “Assistant to the Hokim” initiative. Trained representatives are put in every neighborhood to identify and support families that are struggling. Launched in 2021, these assistants are empowered to assess needs, connect people with government services and propose customized solutions. The organization does not just hand out aid, it also finds the causes of poverty for each family and works to support them.

So far, the program has improved 35 million people’s income level. For families lacking work, assistants can arrange job interviews or training. The program also provides support to those who do not have housing by helping them secure land or subsidies. The program works locally so every community can receive help.

2. Giving Rural Families a Stake

Uzbekistan’s government has launched an initiative to distribute unused land that the state owns to low-income families for agricultural purposes. The initiative recognizes that land is one of the most valuable assets in rural economies. Since 2020, the government has allocated more than 260,000 hectares of land to 800,000 residents, providing them with opportunities to engage in farming and generate income. It is a long-term investment in rural prosperity that breaks the cycle of seasonal or subsistence living. Farmers can take out loans to improve their production or upgrade equipment.

3. Women at the Centre

There have been efforts to tackle gender inequality. Women have had limited access to education and jobs, especially in rural areas. The government has created microfinance programs and vocational training tailored specifically for women to help address these issues. As of early 2023, women managed more than 39,000 small enterprises and micro-firms. These women-led businesses have shown remarkable growth, with a net income increase of nearly 9.2 trillion soums (more than $757 million) compared to the previous year. These programs provide women with the resources to support the growth of their businesses and contribute to the goal of tackling poverty.

4. Investing in Digital Skills for the Next Generation

Youth unemployment is a significant issue when it comes to poverty in central Asia. Therefore, the Uzbekistan government implemented the “Digital Uzbekistan 2030” strategy to promote digital literacy. The strategy has resulted in the training of thousands of young people who have been part of programs that develop skills in coding, graphic design and e-commerce. The programs are set up in rural areas where there has been an increase in internet access. The strategy aims not just to educate, but also to connect a generation to the global digital economy, setting young people up in careers that are of high value to the economy and supporting families in poverty.

5. Tax Breaks for Companies Hiring the Marginalized

Uzbekistan introduced tax incentives in 2023 for companies that hire people from low-income or vulnerable backgrounds. The incentives include underrepresented groups such as those who have been unemployed for a long time and the disabled.

Under the scheme, businesses can deduct a portion of their payroll taxes for every eligible worker they employ. These are not just temporary placements; most incentives apply only after employees complete a minimum tenure, encouraging companies to retain and develop talent over time.

Looking Ahead

In 2024, household income saw significant growth, with real income per capita increasing by 10.7%, reaching an average of 2.1 million UZS per month. The initiatives that the Uzbek government has led have proven successful in tackling poverty in Uzbekistan and will continue to support families across the country.

– James Harwood

James is based in the United Kingdom and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Uzbekistan’s Anti-Poverty Program

Uzbekistan’s Antipoverty Program Uzbekistan, a landlocked country in central Asia with a population of 36 million, has improved living conditions and reduced economic hardship. The nation’s GDP grew by 5.5% in 2023, reflecting steady progress in economic development. However, income inequality remains a challenge, particularly in remote regions with scarce employment opportunities. Nearly one in 10 Uzbek youth struggle to find stable jobs, highlighting the need for targeted workforce development. To address these disparities, the government has introduced a large-scale initiative focused on vocational training, education access and job creation, aiming to elevate living standards and foster long-term prosperity.

Poverty in Uzbekistan

Despite Uzbekistan’s progress in reducing poverty, challenges remain, particularly in rural areas, where nearly half the population lives. Limited access to essential services and economic opportunities continues to hinder development in these regions. The national unemployment rate stands at 6.8%, but job opportunities remain scarce in many areas. Youth face particularly high unemployment, with 24% struggling to find work. Informal employment, which operates outside government regulation, remains widespread, further complicating efforts to ensure stable and secure job opportunities across the country.

“From Poverty to Prosperity” Program

To tackle poverty and lift 1 million people out of economic hardship, the Government of Uzbekistan partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to launch the “From Poverty to Prosperity” initiative in late 2024. The program prioritizes vocational training and job creation to address employment challenges. Although Uzbekistan currently has 250,000 job vacancies, many low-income individuals lack the necessary skills and training to qualify for these positions.

Uzbekistan’s anti-poverty program aims to bridge this gap by expanding job training programs, equipping participants with essential skills and increasing access to stable, well-paying employment. Beyond workforce development, the program emphasizes education for children from low-income families, expanding access to higher education and increasing enrollment in preschools. By investing in skills training and education, the initiative seeks to build long-term economic stability for individuals and communities across Uzbekistan.

Recent Progress

Since 2020, the Uzbekistan government has made poverty reduction a national priority. Significant resources have been invested into the movement and the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has even declared  poverty reduction a “national movement.” Social programs have been modernized and expanded in recent years, assisting the poor. This investment in fighting poverty has already yielded significant results, with the poverty rate falling from 17% in 2021 to 11%. Rural areas, which have higher rates of poverty than urban areas, have seen the largest poverty reduction, declining by 7.8 percentage points.

Looking Ahead

Uzbekistan’s anti-poverty program demonstrates the country’s continued investment in education, workforce development and social programs, positioning the country to meet its goal of lifting 1 million people out of poverty in 2025. The “From Poverty to Prosperity” program marks another step toward sustainable economic growth and improved living standards. With government investments and strategic reforms, Uzbekistan is on track to further reduce poverty and create a more inclusive economy.

– Matthew Wornom

Matthew is based in Yorktown, VA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Facts About Disability and Poverty in Uzbekistan

Disability and Poverty in UzbekistanUzbekistan is a country in Central Asia neighbored by Kazakhstan to the north, Kyrgyzstan to the northeast, Afghanistan to the south, Tajikistan to the southeast and Turkmenistan to the southwest. It is one of only two countries in the world that is doubly landlocked, or surrounded by other countries that are also landlocked. Disability and poverty in Uzbekistan often go together, with people having a tougher time participating in society. In recent years, the nation has made a concerted effort to improve the conditions of disabled people within its borders. Here are five facts you need to know about disability and poverty in Uzbekistan.

5 Facts About Disability and Poverty in Uzbekistan

  1. Disabled people make up about 2.5% of the population. In 2022, it was reported by KUN that 845,000 people were officially recognized by Uzbekistan as being disabled. More than half of people over the age of 60 have some kind of disability. Most disabled people live in rural communities across Uzbekistan, though a few live in cities like Tashkent. The largest region, Navoiy, also has the highest rate of disability in the nation, at 3.6%.
  2. Employment is difficult to come by for those with disabilities in Uzbekistan. In Uzbekistan, people with disabilities are 4.3 times less likely to have a full-time job than people without disabilities. Additionally, people with disabilities make just 74% the monthly wage of people without disabilities. Disability:IN reported that people with disabilities made 612,000 UZS per month ($47.55). In comparison, in 2019, people without disabilities made 827,000 UZS per month ($64.26).
  3. Some welfare is provided to those with disabilities in Uzbekistan. The World Bank reported that almost 700,000 people with disabilities in Uzbekistan were given pensions and other social benefits in 2019. However, many of those people survive only on those pensions because they find it difficult to gain full-time employment.
  4. There are organizations that are helping disabled people. Some organizations, like the Gulbahor Nurli Kelajak LLC, provide much-needed employment in the tailoring industry for disabled people. Gulbahor Nurli Kelajak has employed more than 50 disabled people, mostly women, since its founding in Termez, Uzbekistan in 2021. Additionally, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) works in Uzbekistan, with one of its goals being to alleviate disability and poverty concerns in the country.
  5. Laws are in place to protect people with disabilities in Uzbekistan. In 2020, Uzbekistan passed its first comprehensive law, “On the Rights of Persons with Disabilities”. The law aims to provide more opportunities and better conditions for people with disabilities. In 2021, the country ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, further enshrining protections.

Other Considerations

Alongside these five facts about disability and poverty in Uzbekistan, the country has recently been doing more to protect and give more opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in life. Universities give admission preference to students with disabilities. This is starting to show signs of improving disability and poverty in the country, with students having more opportunities than before.

However, activists across the country are disgruntled with the slow adoption of the law. Many wish more could be done to change the culture of pity toward people with disabilities. The infrastructure for equal facilities for people with disabilities is not yet in place and people still feel stigmatized from participating in events like elections or festivals. Although the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated like a holiday, activists in the country believe the day should be more about educating people about disabilities. 

Looking Ahead

Together, these five facts about disability and poverty in Uzbekistan paint a picture of a country that is trying to bring reforms that bridge the gap between people with disabilities and people without disabilities. Although the reforms have happened within the last five years, Uzbekistan has shown willingness to improve conditions for its people.

– Julius Millan

Julius is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Renewable Energy in Uzbekistan

Renewable Energy in UzbekistanRecently, the government of Uzbekistan has made notable strides toward achieving SDG 1: No Poverty, as highlighted in a roundtable discussion by the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan and UNDP. A key factor in this progress could be the introduction of renewable energy in Uzbekistan. This article examines how renewable energy could play a crucial role in alleviating poverty in Uzbekistan.

The Introduction of Renewable Energy

The World Bank, Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) and the Government of Uzbekistan have entered into a financial agreement to develop a 250-megawatt solar photovoltaic plant, paired with a 63-megawatt battery energy storage system (BESS). This project aims to deliver clean and reliable electricity to approximately 75,000 households.

It stands out as Central Asia’s first renewable energy initiative to include an integrated BESS, enhancing the efficiency and flexibility of the power system. This initiative will improve supply security and mitigate the intermittency associated with renewable energy generation. Thanks to the World Bank’s guarantee, the project ensures an affordable supply of renewable energy in Uzbekistan for both households and businesses throughout the country.

Affordable and Steady Energy Supply

Access to affordable and reliable renewable energy in Uzbekistan could be critical for improving the quality of life and economic opportunities for the poor. In many remote areas of Uzbekistan, access to electricity is limited or nonexistent. Yet, a steady supply of energy is crucial to rural farmers, especially for irrigation, as the impact of natural disasters could intensify soon. Therefore, the implementation of cost-effective renewable energy such as solar energy could greatly enhance the agricultural production of wheat landscapes in key regions in Uzbekistan, thus increasing incomes for the agricultural sectors, which account for approximately a quarter of the national economy

Also, these initiatives could help address the electricity shortages. For instance, the introduction of energy-saving technologies could improve living conditions reducing reliance on expensive and harmful fuels for cooking and heating and facilitating the establishment of small businesses.

In October 2019, the Uzbek government adopted a strategy to transform the Republic of Uzbekistan into a Green Economy by 2030. This strategy aims to increase the share of renewable energy to over a quarter of total energy use and to modernize industrial infrastructure with environmentally safe technologies.

Economic Growth and Job Creation

Renewable energy can significantly combat poverty by fostering economic growth and job creation. A reliable supply of renewable energy can bolster the national and regional economies, leading to the expansion of small and medium-sized enterprises. This growth can create employment opportunities during the construction, maintenance and operation phases of renewable projects.

For instance, in 2018, Uzbekistan joined the World Bank’s Scaling Solar program to kickstart the development of 1 GW of solar energy. This investment in solar power could assist the country in lowering greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the carbon intensity of its GDP. This green approach ensures that every sector such as business and social services could have a stable supply of clean and reliable energy. Moreover, the renewable energy sector can attract foreign investment, driving technological advancements and skill development among the local workforce.

The Future

In conclusion, Uzbekistan has set ambitious targets to halve its poverty rate by 2026 and become an upper-middle-income country by 2030. Renewable energy presents a formidable opportunity for Uzbekistan to combat poverty while promoting sustainable development. By investing in renewable technologies, Uzbekistan could stimulate economic growth, create jobs and improve the quality of life for its citizens. Furthermore, transitioning to cleaner energy sources could enhance environmental sustainability and resilience against climate change. As Uzbekistan continues its development journey, harnessing the potential of renewable energy could be crucial in empowering its population and reducing poverty.

– Hoi Ieng Chao

Hoi is based in Macau, China and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Poverty Reduction in Uzbekistan

Poverty Reduction in UzbekistanLocated in Central Asia with a population of 36.65 million, Uzbekistan has a poverty rate of approximately 11% as of 2023. Vast swathes of the country are very rural, some with limited access to services. These rural areas are home to almost 50% of the population whose source of income is derived primarily from informal sectors, leaving them vulnerable to economic insecurity. With the assistance of funding from Luxembourg and South Korea, the UNDP of Uzbekistan has developed a range of long-term poverty reduction schemes following SDG1. An integrated approach to poverty reduction in Uzbekistan has brought about major improvements to the quality of life for much of the population. One of the most effective approaches has been funding and economic support for local business startups; a strategy promoting sustainable economic diversification and long-term monetary self-reliance.

The Economy of Uzbekistan

Rich in natural resources with a fruitful agricultural industry, much of Uzbekistan’s economy relies on exports, leaving them vulnerable to fluctuations in international commodity prices. Additionally, the agriculture industry is particularly vulnerable to weather changes. The Aral Sea, an important source of water for agriculture in the region, has faced damages such as drought and salinization.

Foreign remittances also make up approximately 20% of the country’s GDP, which could become a source of economic insecurity if future generations become more distanced. The road to guaranteeing long-term economic security and reducing poverty must involve economic diversification and the improvement of quality of life. Recognizing this, the UNDP has sought to develop an approach which addresses poverty-related issues in a multi-faceted way.

Approach to Poverty Reduction in Uzbekistan

Bringing together a group of representatives for a roundtable discussion, the UNDP of Uzbekistan defined its approach to poverty reduction as one that tackles “the complexities and multiple dimensions of poverty beyond just income,” according to the UNDP Deputy Resident Representative. This involves the strengthening of social protection systems and the effective channeling and distribution of resources to those most in need. This approach recognizes poverty’s multiple dimensions and the importance of a sustainable and holistic approach to improving quality of life in the long term.

One particularly socially engaging scheme saw the UNDP working alongside the Westminster International University in Tashkent. This initiative encouraged university students to design practical poverty reduction strategies which they later pitched to experts. The two winning pitches designed schemes for improving Mentorship Support and Financial Literacy. This scheme is a highly effective example of how governments can engage the knowledge and work of young people in the service of national poverty reduction, improving the country’s quality of life.

Support for Small Businesses

One initiative that has proven particularly successful in improving both quality of life and economic diversity in the region is the provision of funds for local entrepreneurs and small-business startups. The provision of a $30 million loan to support local businesses from the OPEC Fund for International Development is one such initiative that recognizes the importance of SMEs in driving economic growth and boosting economic self-reliance. Recent support for local enterprises correlates with the overall direction of poverty reduction in Uzbekistan. According to Uzbekistan’s Center for Economic Research and Reforms, where the income from local small businesses has risen from 0.7% in 2021 to 2.9% in 2023, national poverty rates have fallen from 17% in 2021 to 11% in 2023.

Support for small and local businesses does not only benefit the country economically but can encourage social inclusion and improve quality of life at an individual scale. Investment and funding for SMEs can be channelled towards, say, sustainable and eco-friendly businesses, providing an incentive for the growth of future enterprises of this nature. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, for example, has directed funding to female entrepreneurs and female-run businesses. This initiative supports women in business and designs an effective model for long-term economic growth, assisting individuals in developing new professional skills that they can apply in different industries. These schemes are not only economically beneficial for the country, but can also be tailored to encourage inclusion and create opportunities, taking an integrated and sustainable approach to poverty reduction.

Multi-Dimensional Approach

An integrated and multi-dimensional approach, which concerns itself with both income and quality of life, has proven highly effective in aiding the process of poverty reduction in Uzbekistan. The UNDP’s approach emphasizes the importance of future-led planning to ensure the most effective resource distribution to address economic imbalances in the nation. By providing economic support and teaching people new skills, strategies such as funding business startups help to facilitate the reduction of poverty in both the immediate and long-term future.

– Aimee Masters

Aimee is based in London, UK and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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What To Know about Mental Health in Uzbekistan

Mental Health in UzbekistanUzbekistan has taken a series of initiatives to address the mental health crisis, which affects one in eight people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Improving mental health in Uzbekistan has the potential to yield an impressive return on investment. The WHO estimates almost half a trillion Uzbekistani sum (UZS) return over the next decade. According to the International Psychiatry country profile, the Uzbek government has already made great strides in tackling the mental health crisis since it became a public health priority in Uzbekistan in November 1998.

Obstacles

Historically, mental health care in Uzbekistan has relied on institutions grappling with understaffing and inadequate funding. These obstacles have resulted in increased rates of mental health issues. This includes a 15% increase in registered mental disorders between 1991 and 2017 and a suicide rate being 8.0 per 100,000 people in 2019, according to WHO.

The journey to implement mental health reforms has been met with challenges. This has included stigmatization and low political support, according to the Central Asian Journal of Global Health. The stigma surrounding mental health is a global issue that hinders people’s ability to seek treatment.

Recent Initiatives

On April 20, 2023, the Uzbek Senate held a meeting to discuss the mental health and well-being of Uzbek youth. During this meeting, the working group for adolescent mental health discussed educational work to address the mental health crisis, bringing thousands of examples of how media can help this.

On June 19, 2023, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a decree outlining initiatives to improve the public mental health service. These initiatives include implementing the World Health Organization’s Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) and integrating Social Emotional Learning (SEL) into school curriculums.

The Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP)

mhGAP consists of 48 recommendations that aim to empower nations in confronting the mental health crisis head-on, with a specific focus on addressing neurological, mental and substance abuse disorders. These evidence-based recommendations range from training and intervention strategies to medication guidance.

The training that mhGAP Intervention Guide (mhGAP-IG) provides has been particularly impactful. A 2020 International Journal of Mental Health Systems study revealed this training has the power to boost participants’ knowledge and skills in mental health care despite obstacles such as resistance among staff and lack of financial resources. Since this initiative has only been present in Uzbekistan since 2023, there is not yet a record of its impact. However, past studies paint a promising picture for the future of mental health in Uzbekistan.

Education and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

SEL can be a powerful tool in the prevention and early intervention of mental disorders by promoting general mental well-being. It consists of five components: “self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making.” These pillars not only promote personal development and well-being but also contribute to fostering resilient communities.

A few examples of how this could look in Uzbek classrooms are mindfulness practices or intentionally integrating skills such as cooperation or listening into daily activities, according to Be You. Implementing SEL in secondary schools can reach more youth as a result of Uzbekistan’s recent education reforms.

Other preventative educational initiatives include training sessions and seminars that the Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center for Narcology conducted in hundreds of schools aiming to assist students in identifying signs of substance abuse, according to the Uzbek Senate.

Regional Collaboration

Uzbekistan is not alone in the ongoing battle to tackle the mental health crisis. In April 2023, Uzbekistan hosted talks about strengthening mental health care in Central Asian countries through community-led initiatives and partnerships. Further collaborative efforts occurred in October 2023 when Uzbek mental health representatives and professionals joined three other Central Asian countries for a study visit to Trieste, Italy. There, they learned about community-based mental health reform.

Looking Forward

In the ongoing battle against the mental health crisis, Uzbekistan stands alongside fellow Central Asian countries striving to address the issue through evidence-based reforms. With each strategic step, more than 30 million Uzbeks move closer to enhanced mental wellness.

– Madison Paulus
Photo: Flickr

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Child Poverty in Uzbekistan

Child Poverty UzbekistanUzbekistan is a ‘young’ nation. Of its 35 million people, 33% are aged zero to 17, with the average age of Uzbekistan citizens being 29. For comparison, the average for the United Kingdom is 40; China’s is 38; Brazil’s is 33. 

Access to Education

Child poverty in Uzbekistan is tied to education. Lately, Uzbekistan has made progress, but statistics showing economic growth and reductions in poverty do not change Uzbekistan’s need for educational reform. The poorest members of Uzbek society are children, and the poorest households are those with the least education. Luckily, Uzbekistan’s government and its international partners recognize this, and plans are being made for the young country’s future. 

Since Uzbekistan’s current president, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, was elected in 2016, international observers have generally agreed that the country has liberalized its economy and curtailed human rights abuses, particularly slave labor. Although progress slowed with COVID-19, steady economic growth has been met with a reciprocal reduction in poverty. It fell to 14% in 2022 from 17% in 2021 and 21% in 2019. Uzbekistan commits over 20% of its budget to social welfare and education. To compare, China spent 11% of its budget on education in 2021, as did the United Kingdom; Brazil spent 12%. 

Child poverty in Uzbekistan comes, in part, from its past as a former colony of the Soviet Union. Like other Soviet colonies, low funding and the enforcement of Russian as the primary educational language crippled education in Uzbekistan. Wanting to reverse this legacy is understandable. However, significant spending has historically been followed by corruption, inequality and inefficiency. Money is not enough.

Current Poverty Levels

As of 2023, on average, Uzbeks earn around $350 a month, with many making far less. The minimum wage is currently $82 a month. In 2019, UNICEF reported that 30% of Uzbekistan lived on incomes less than the minimum wage. More relevantly, of households headed by someone without education, 62% made less than half the average wage Most uneducated households earn less than $175 a month or a little under $6 a day. If the average household includes five people, then the household earns $1.20 per person.

The more children an uneducated household has, the poorer it will be. The poorer the household, the more likely its children will have low educational attainment. Poverty, like elsewhere, forms a vicious cycle with education. Unsurprisingly, then, children are statistically the poorest part of Uzbek society. A study made in 2021 found that classes often have 40-45 students while being designed for 25. The strain of overcrowding on teaching staff has created a system of after-school courses intended to help students ‘catch up.’ The government does not fund these, costing around $3 per lesson. If some families live on $6 a day and others $12, $14, $100, it is evident enough which families can afford these lessons and which cannot.

This is a small part of a wider problem. Ending child poverty in Uzbekistan is tied to reforming its education. Education and childcare represent a burden families cannot afford, and this poverty, in turn, leads to poorer educational outcomes: a vicious cycle. 

Government Strategy

The government of Uzbekistan recognizes this connection. President Mirziyoyev introduced the ‘Development Strategy of the New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026’ in 2022, which aims to cut the country’s poverty in half. Education and social protection for families are recognized as critical hurdles to this. As such, the strategy allocated $100 million to create free training and business courses nationwide. It also introduced an online system to allow low-income families to receive their social benefits automatically. 

Access to pre-school is to be raised from 67% to 80%; access to higher education is to be raised to 50%.

The strategy works with international partners. USAID in October announced a $40 million investment in Uzbek education, particularly toward the goal of making 51% of schools inclusive to disabled students. It’s too early to say how successful this strategy will be. Either way, the problem is recognized. 

– Frederick Lake

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Facts About Child Poverty in Uzbekistan 

Child Poverty in UzbekistanUzbekistan has made remarkable strides in reducing poverty and improving child welfare. Despite these gains, child poverty in Uzbekistan remains a pressing issue, with many children living in disadvantaged conditions. 

Declining Child Mortality Rate 

Uzbekistan has significantly reduced the infant and under-5 mortality rates over the past four decades. According to World Bank data, the infant mortality rate fell drastically from 98 per 1,000 live births in 1980 to just 13 per 1,000 live births in 2021. Likewise, the under-5 mortality rate reached an all-time low of 14 per 1,000 live births in 2021. 

Child Poverty in Uzbekistan

Nonetheless, child poverty remains a pressing issue in Uzbekistan. UNICEF’s 2019 report, “Building a Better Future: A Child-sensitive Social Protection System for Uzbekistan,” stated that 30% of young children and 24% of children between five to 14 years old belong to the poorest quintile of Uzbekistan. While the general poverty in Uzbekistan is 21%, the child poverty rate stood higher at 24%. 

As of 2019, 57% of children in the country lived on less than 10,000 UZS per day, approximately 1.5 times the minimum wage. The minimum wage in Uzbekistan also serves as the income eligibility threshold for families to receive child benefits. The prevailing circumstances signified that many children lived in households struggling to provide adequate child care. 

UNICEF currently estimates that children in Uzbekistan are one and a half times more likely to be poor than adults.

Malnutrition

Many young children in Uzbekistan experience undernutrition. Another 2019 UNICEF report, “Building a National Social Protection System Fit For Uzbekistan’s Children and Youth,” reported that 9% of children are stunted, causing irreversible damage to the children’s cognitive development. The report also highlighted that stunted children were likely to earn 26% less as adults than their non-stunted peers, further exacerbating a cycle of poverty and inequality. 

However, from 2002 to 2017, the stunting rate in Uzbekistan dropped from 21% to 8.7%, thanks to Uzbekistan’s immense strides in reducing malnutrition and expanding social welfare.  

Children With Disabilities 

In 2019, 13% of children with disabilities between the ages of 7 and 15 were not enrolled in school. Nearly one-third of young people with disabilities could not attain any diploma, limiting their educational and employment opportunities.

Moreover, UNICEF also determined that 52% of children with severe disabilities lacked access to services from the Child Disability Benefits program, indicating the limited reach of social support for vulnerable children and their families in Uzbekistan.

Social Insecurity 

52% of Uzbekistan’s impoverished households are excluded from any support by the national social protection system, leaving many families with children without benefits and social services. Subsequently, only 17% of children living in households have access to child benefits, only 23% of children under two gain Child Allowance, and only 10% of children between 2 to 14 years old collect the Family Allowance.

Ongoing Efforts by UNICEF

Currently, UNICEF’s global interventions emphasize child-sensitive social protection programs and investing in early childhood and adolescent development. For example, UNICEF is helping Uzbekistan develop a cash benefits program to address household income poverty. The organization plans to further invest in childhood education, health care access, clean water and sanitation to provide impoverished children with the needed care, security and nutrition. The organization hopes to establish sustainable social investments and integrate child-poverty-reduction policies into government budgets. 

Addressing child poverty, improving social security systems and ensuring better access to education and health care for children with disabilities are crucial areas that require concerted efforts from the government, civil society and international organizations to improve the well-being of children in Uzbekistan. 

– Freya Ngo
Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities Operating in Uzbekistan

Charities in UzbekistanUzbekistan has a population of 35 million citizens with nearly 17% of the population living below the national poverty line. Corruption and gender-based violence run rampant in the country with a lack of freedom of expression. Here are five charities in Uzbekistan that are actively guiding the country towards a better future.

5 Charities Operating in Uzbekistan

  1. The Rory Peck Trust – The Rory Peck Trust is an NGO dedicated to aiding freelance journalists and their families during challenging times across the globe. It was established two years after the death of Rory Peck, a brave freelance cameraman who died in a crossfire in Moscow. Peck was reporting Russia’s October coup during the Russian constitutional crises in 1993. The organization aims to elevate the visibility of journalists, safeguard their well-being and security and defend their freedom to report without constraints. One of the most innovative charities in Uzbekistan, they provide psychological support, monetary aid and safety training for journalists. The trust has supported more than 100 journalists reporting in Ukraine during the last 12 months of the Ukraine war. In 2019, at the Human Rights House Tbilisi in Georgia, the Trust partnered with the Justice for Journalists Foundation to provide safety training to Russian-speaking media professionals from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Belarus and Armenia. They also host the prestigious Rory Peck Awards annually, a celebration that honors the bravery and accomplishments of freelance journalists and filmmakers across the world.
  2. The Smile Train – The Smile Train empowers local medical professionals across the world by equipping them with the skills necessary to provide life-changing cleft care and free surgeries to patients who might otherwise not have access to such services. Out of all the charities in Uzbekistan, the Smile Train is the biggest cleft-focused NGO. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that children in need receive the best possible treatment for their condition. They have completed more than 4,000 surgeries in Uzbekistan.
  3. Anti-Slavery International – Anti-Slavery International is the world’s oldest international human rights organization. It was founded in 1839 by Thomas Clarkson, Thomas Fowell Buxton and several other abolitionists. It is not only one of the most important charities in Uzbekistan but the entire world. The organization supports the fundamental human right of freedom for everyone. Around 50 million people suffer from modern slavery around the world today. For 15 years, Anti-Slavery International, the Cotton Campaign, the Uzbek Forum for Human Rights and several other NGOs have been advocating with the United Nations and the International Labor Organization to stop forced and child labor in Uzbekistan. In 2021, the organization made a historic achievement by eliminating state-imposed forced labor in the Uzbek cotton harvest in the country. Uzbekistan has unlocked the potential to export cotton textiles to countries around the world. However, wider labor risks remain in the country. International companies need to be ethical and stop exploitation of Uzbekistan’s cotton textiles.
  4. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) – Médecins Sans Frontières is French for ‘Doctors Without Borders.’ It is a renowned international medical humanitarian organization committed to delivering high-quality medical care to individuals facing crises, regardless of their race, religion or political beliefs. Over 1 million patients are admitted to MSF clinics across the globe. MSF was established in France by a group of journalists and doctors during the beginning of the war and famine in the temporary state of Biafra in Nigeria in 1971. They extend their assistance to people affected by war, disease, natural and human-made disasters and those marginalized from access to health care in over 70 countries. In Uzbekistan, MSF primarily focuses on addressing the challenges posed by multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) patients. They introduced directly observed treatment (DOT) to combat the issue. This is an innovative approach that was invented using video links during lockdowns. Through this method, TB patients receive their treatment at home, with the guidance and supervision of a nurse virtually. By leveraging technology, MSF aims to ensure the continuity of TB treatment even during challenging circumstances.
  5. SOS Children’s Villages – SOS Children’s Villages is a prominent international NGO dedicated to providing essential support to children without parental care and families facing the risk of separation. One of the major charities in Uzbekistan, they provide support to vulnerable families and children during crisis situations, offer educational aid to teachers and children in the region and create loving and nurturing homes for children who have lost parental care. So far, they have brought up more than 170 children in the cities of Tashkent, Samarkand and Urgench. The organization was founded by six individuals: Hermann Gmeiner, Maria Hofer, Josef Jestl, Ludwig Kögel, Herbert Pfanner and Hedwig Weingartner in 1949 in Austria. Thousands of children had lost their families because of the Second World War. In the past 70 years, they have supported around 4 million young people with programs that are flexible and can be suited to different races, cultures and religions. The organization has roots in the capital of Tashkent in 2000. They are currently supporting around 150 adolescents in the city.

These charities in Uzbekistan endeavor to create a positive impact on the lives of the Uzbek people as well as international journalists and reporters.

– Sharvi Rana
Photo: Unsplash