On December 6, 2021 United Nations Population Fund organized awareness raising event for 16-days against gender-based violence at Westminster International University in Tashkent  to involve student participants in the global campaign and instill an understanding of ways to prevent and combat gender-based violence. Although this is the first event of its kind  held at a university in Uzbekistan, it is planned that the event will be held at the university annually and adapt to student engagement and feedback. 

Speakers of the event were Mr. Yu Yu, UN Resident Coordinator a.i. and UNFPA Representative in Uzbekistan, Ms. Dilora Ganieva, UNFPA Gender Specialist, Ms.Kamola Alieva, Senior Lecturer at Tashkent State University of Law, Ms. Nozima Davletova, International Gender Consultant for the UNFPA and UNDP.

Dilora Ganieva introduced the students to the history and purpose of the 16 days of violence campaign. She also acquainted the students with the UNFPA, the role of the organization within the campaign and how the organization aims to help combat gender-based violence in Uzbekistan. Students learned about UNFPA’s gender program and various ways they can get involved within the campaign.

 Kamola Alieva, a senior lecturer of TSUL, PhD in Law,   specialist on gender equality issues, women’s rights activist and an external legal advisor at PLP law firm, spoke on the questions and answers that were posed prior to the event and hold a discussion with students about prevalent types of gender-based violence in Uzbekistan. Students were introduced to key legal facts and information about their own rights and ways to combat gender-based violence in the legal system.

Nozima Davletova, consultant on gender issues for various think tanks, international organizations and institutions, provided a comprehensive analysis of gender-based violence in Uzbekistan and introduced students to ways other countries are combating this issue. 

During the second part of the event students in groups presented innovative ways to prevent GBV in everyday life. Students provided several examples of methods, channels or approaches that can ensure that women will not be subjected to violence simply due to their gender.