UNFPA, in collaboration with the Center for Professional Development of Social Protection Personnel under the National Agency for Social Protection (NASP) under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and with support from the UK Government, organized a series of training sessions on the implementation of Decree No. PQ-175, "On Additional Measures to Improve the Provision of Social Services to Persons Affected by Harassment and Violence".

The training sessions were held in the Samarkand region from February 10 to 15, 2025, under the theme "Fundamentals of Providing Comprehensive Services in Response to Cases of Harassment and Violence Against Women". Participants included psychologists and social workers from the "Inson" social service centers across 16 districts and cities, employees of the Samarkand Regional Divisions of the Republican Center for the Rehabilitation and Adaptation of Women, and representatives of partner organizations.

The training aimed to strengthen the capacity of social service providers to deliver comprehensive support to women and children affected by, or at risk of, gender-based violence. Key topics included the causes and consequences of gender-based violence, the impact of stereotypes, the distinction between violence and conflict, and the review and application of relevant legal and regulatory frameworks. Special attention was given to improving multisectoral coordination among social service providers, law enforcement, healthcare, and civil society organizations.

Prior to these sessions in Samarkand, a cascade roll-out of regional training was conducted by master trainers from the Center for Advanced Training of Social Protection System Personnel and UNFPA trainers. These sessions took place in three pilot regions identified by NASP under Decree No. 175—Khorezm, Navoi, and Jizzakh—as well as in the Republic of Karakalpakstan. More than 1,500 professionals participated, including 1,107 employees from Inson centers, as well as psychologists, staff from the Family and Women's Committee, healthcare workers, and law enforcement personnel. The sessions served as an induction for newly recruited social service staff, equipping them with essential knowledge and skills for an effective interagency response to gender-based violence.

Through these efforts, UNFPA and its partners continue to support the enhancement of social protection services, ensuring a coordinated and survivor-centered approach to addressing gender-based violence in Uzbekistan.

This project (material) has been funded by UK International Development from the UK government; however, the views expressed do not necessarily reflect the UK government’s official policies