Tashkent hosted the first forum on “The role of women deputies in development of Uzbekistan”.

The forum was organized by the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Commission for Ensuring Gender Equality, together with the UNDP and the OSCE. It was attended by members of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis, deputies of the Legislative Chamber and local Councils, members of the Youth Parliament, officials of state bodies and public organizations, representatives of international organizations, media workers.

48 ​​women deputies were elected to the lower house of parliament as a result of the implemented practical work following the last year’s elections. Women make up 32 percent of the total number of deputies, and in the Senate – 25 percent. For the first time in the history of Uzbekistan, the number of women in the national parliament has been brought to the level recommended by the UN. The parliament of the country takes the 37th place among 190 parliaments by the number of women.

The need was noted for improving the activities of women elected to the representative bodies, creating a platform of women parliamentarians for a wider use of their powers.

At the forum, the participants expressed their opinions on the creation of a Parliamentary Association of Women, determined its goal and objectives, a general strategy and directions of activity.

In addition, at the event, attention was focused on the participation of women deputies elected to representative bodies in the social and political life of Uzbekistan. Prospects for women’s activities aimed at developing the economic and agricultural spheres were considered.

The importance of strengthening parliamentary and public control in ensuring social and spiritual stability in families, protecting women from discrimination and violence, eliminating various negative phenomena observed among women was also noted.

The opinions and proposals expressed following the forum were summarized, appropriate recommendations were developed. The event was attended by the Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan Tanzila Narbayeva.

Nazokat Usmonova, UzA