Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 10 April, the official launch of the UN joint program "Inclusive Transformation of the Local Governance System in Uzbekistan, Child- and Youth-Friendly" took place.

The initiative is being implemented with the support of UNICEF, UNDP, the "Yuksalish" Movement, and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. The launch ceremony was attended by representatives from government bodies, civil society institutions, youth organizations, and international partners.

Creating an Inclusive Environment for Youth

Rehina Kastigio, Head of the UNICEF Representation in Uzbekistan, emphasized, "This program reflects our collective commitment to building a more just and inclusive society, where youth play an active role in governance processes. We are joining efforts with the Government of Uzbekistan, UN agencies, civil society, and international partners to create transparent, accountable, and youth-centered local governance systems."

The program is based on the successful experience of the pilot project "Youth- and Child-Friendly Local Governance," implemented in six cities in 2022-2023. The pilot demonstrated that involving young people in decision-making processes helps improve infrastructure, environmental initiatives, and the accessibility of services for people with disabilities.

Geography and Project Funding

The program will cover 12 districts in Surkhandarya, Kashkadarya, Khorezm, and Tashkent regions. Financial support of USD 2 million has been provided by the Government of Switzerland. Special attention will be given to socially vulnerable groups and areas with limited access to quality services.

Andrin Fink, Head of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, noted, "Switzerland supports reforms aimed at expanding youth rights, improving governance transparency, and creating equal opportunities. This initiative is a crucial step in strengthening inclusive local governance in Uzbekistan."

Strategic Priorities and Expected Results

The program aligns with key national documents, including the Uzbekistan-2030 Strategy, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Youth Strategy, and the country's commitments to children's rights protection.

Its implementation will contribute to:

Strengthening local governance institutions;

Engaging youth in decision-making processes;

Improving budget planning based on actual data;

Enhancing the quality of public and social services.

Bobur Bekmurodov, Chairman of the "Yuksalish" Movement, stated, "The program addresses key service gaps and promotes inclusive governance. We are confident that it will lay the foundation for equal opportunities for all children and youth."

Global Practices and Long-Term Development

The program will introduce international standards of inclusive governance, including:

Results-oriented planning;

Youth participation in policy development;

Training public officials on inclusivity principles.

Akiko Fujii, UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan, emphasized, "Building on our experience, we will create conditions where youth can influence the development of their communities. This is an important contribution to Uzbekistan's sustainable future."

The implementation of the program will contribute to improving the effectiveness of public investments, equitable resource distribution, and long-term socio-economic development in the country.