The World Bank turns its attention to women
Salaries of Uzbekistani women are 35–40% lower than those of men, even if they are employed in the same field and possess the same qualifications. This is stated in a new report by the World Bank (WB) titled "Uzbekistan Poverty and Equity Assessment: Toward Prosperity and Empowerment for All."
The WB recommended expanding childcare services
To continue reducing poverty in Uzbekistan, it is necessary to increase women's employment. The WB identified several areas that could help increase their participation in the labor market.
In particular, it is proposed to expand childcare services. In addition, there is a need to invest in quality education so that women can acquire the knowledge and professional skills demanded by employers.
Experts also advise improving transport links and access to public services in lagging regions and mahallas. It is proposed to target social assistance more precisely to those population groups that need it most.
Women's safety in the workplace is important
First Deputy Minister of Employment and Poverty Reduction Marat Dzhuraev reported that today women make up 53% of students in the country's universities. In his opinion, this opens up opportunities for expanding women's participation in the labor market in the future.
Dzhuraev also said that the ministry, together with the WB, has created a special commission to protect women from pressure, violence, and sexual harassment in the workplace. "This will also serve as a solid foundation for increasing women's activity in workplaces," he noted.
Women's economic opportunities must be expanded
World Bank Country Director for Central Asia Tatiana Proskuryakova stated that expanding women's economic opportunities remains one of the important tasks. "To consolidate the results achieved by Uzbekistan, it is important to invest in human capital, create jobs for youth, and expand economic opportunities for women," she said.
Such measures, according to her, can help women participate more actively in the labor market and earn their own income.