The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Uzbekistan hosted the first-ever UNDP Talks, a unique platform showcasing real-life success stories of individuals who have transformed their lives through innovative poverty reduction and livelihood improvement initiatives.

The event brought together government officials, development partners, private sector representatives, and the media. 

“Over the past 5 years, successful poverty reduction at the grassroots level has been achieved through the targeted mahalla system, combining advanced foreign approaches and local specifics with the support of international partners, IFIs, and UN organizations”, said Mr. Ilkhom Norkulov, the first Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan in his opening remarks. 

As UNDP marks 60 years globally in 2025, this milestone event served as a moment for reflection and a call to action – to scale up proven solutions and ensure that impactful, community-driven approaches reach more people across Uzbekistan.

Passing the floor to the speakers, UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan, Ms. Akiko Fujii, emphasized that development is first and foremost about people: 

“We are not here to talk about what we did – we are here to listen. These are stories of resilience, dignity, and opportunity. UNDP doesn’t just implement projects; we work hand in hand with communities to build lasting solutions. As we mark 60 years of impact, our goal is clear – to do more, to do better, and to ensure that no one is left behind”.

UNDP Talks is the first in a series of events to share best practices and ready-to-scale solutions for poverty reduction, livelihoods, and inclusive development. 

The event called for stronger partnerships, bringing together the government, donors, the private sector, and civil society to collaborate and build on solutions that worked.

Nasiba Ziyodullayeva, UzA