LocationsUzbekistan's Progress with SDG1: Roundtable Discusses Achievements and Strategies in the Fight Against Poverty for Sustainable Development
November 8, 2023
Uzbekistan is taking significant strides in the fight against poverty, with a notable reduction in the national poverty level according to recent data. The country's efforts in poverty reduction were highlighted at the first roundtable discussion co-organized by the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan and UNDP, as part of SDG month, dedicated to Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1): No Poverty. The event brought together representatives from international organizations, UN agencies, civil society institutions, experts from foreign research and analytical centers, and the media.
Uzbekistan's commitment to eradicating poverty is evident through the implementation of a national model focusing on minimum consumer spending. In 2021, the national poverty level stood at 17%, decreasing to 14.1% in 2022.
Key questions discussed at the roundtable included measures to eradicate extreme forms of poverty, reforms to strengthen social protection systems, ensuring economic and financial conditions for equal access to resources, enhancing resilience against climate-related events, and mobilizing resources for poverty elimination programs. Participants engaged in fruitful discussions, sharing experiences and best practices in poverty reduction and assessing progress towards SDG 1.
Anas Fayyad Qarman, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in his opening remarks noted,
“We are glad to be closely collaborating with the Government of Uzbekistan in embarking on a journey to build and pilot the National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), that should enable developing and implement targeted and more efficient policy measures in Uzbekistan. This initiative reflects government's dedication to understanding and tackling the complexities and multiple dimensions of poverty beyond just income.”
UNDP presented the work that has been completed so far on the pilot National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) for Uzbekistan. This will be an effective tool for evidence-based targeted policymaking. The study has been piloted with the support from UNDP and with direct engagement of Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative and the first report is being finalized and will soon be announced. This work has been made possible through generous financial support of the governments of Luxembourg and South Korea (via UNDP Funding Window for Poverty & Inequality).
The roundtable underscored Uzbekistan's dedication to achieving SDG 1 and highlighted the collaborative approach. As the country continues its efforts to eliminate poverty in all its forms, the shared knowledge and cooperation from this event will play a pivotal role in shaping future strategies and initiatives.
UNDP stands ready to provide necessary support to the Government of Uzbekistan on the pathway to more sustainable equitable and green future leaving no one behind.
