UNESCO, in cooperation with the Government of Uzbekistan, held a dedicated side event titled “Promoting gender equality through multilateral collaboration” in Samarkand during the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference, reiterating international commitments to promoting women’s empowerment across science, culture, communication, and information.

The event served as a platform for UNESCO to outline recent progress and highlight the organisation’s continued ambitions in gender-focused initiatives. The gathering placed significant attention on work already carried out under its latest strategy and on strengthening cooperation among member states.

Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO Director-General, drew attention to newly published findings from UNESCO in Action for Gender Equality: 2024–2025, which showcases results from programmes across education and wider societal spheres. According to UNESCO, initiatives over the last two years have supported 27 million learners through efforts to challenge bias and stereotypes in teaching materials and learning environments.

“Our report shows that together, we have truly made a difference for gender equality. We still have a long way to go — but we know where we are headed, and we know how to get there,” Azoulay stated, emphasising that the organisation’s work begins in classrooms and extends across all operational areas.

Senior representatives from Uzbekistan were present, including H.E. Ms. Zulaykho Makhkamova, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan and Chairperson of the Committee on Family and Women, and Ms. Ghayane Umerova, Head of the National Commission of Uzbekistan for UNESCO and Chairperson of the Uzbekistan Arts and Culture Development Foundation.

UNESCO’s messaging stressed the need for women’s leadership as a core foundation for peace, justice and sustainable development. “Peace, justice, and progress are only possible when women lead. We are proud to advance their empowerment,” noted H.E. Ms. Zulaykho Makhkamova.

During the event, the biennial report UNESCO in Action for Gender Equality 2024–2025 was formally presented by Begona Lasagabaster, Director of UNESCO’s Division for Gender Equality. The publication uses UNESCO research and data to chart achievements and strategic partnerships advancing equality globally throughout the 2024–2025 period.

Lasagabaster highlighted challenges linked to rising crises and pressures on women’s rights, as well as UNESCO’s response, noting work to create inclusive educational spaces, elevate women’s roles in science, address gender-based violence, strengthen digital safety, and protect female journalists, scientists, and artists, particularly in crisis affected regions.

“This report is more than a publication. It tells the story of what happens when commitment, creativity, and collaboration advance the rights of women and girls.” she said.

Alongside discussions, H.E. Zulaykho Makhkamova introduced the publication Women. History. Civilization, which honours women who have shaped Uzbekistan’s heritage and contributed to the country’s social, cultural, and economic progress across centuries.

The book profiles influential figures from periods spanning the 7th century BCE to the 19th century, recognising longstanding contributions that have historically been overlooked. “This work brings to light remarkable women — from the 7th century BCE to the 19th century — whose stories have long been overlooked, and honors the sacred sites in Uzbekistan that keep their legacy alive.” Makhkamova noted.

The event also included a panel session, “Empowering Women in Education, Science and Culture,” featuring four UNESCO laureates:

• Dilfuza Egamberdieva (Uzbekistan), laureate of the UNESCO–Carlos J. Finlay Prize for Microbiology
  
• Prof. Alicia Kowaltowski (Brazil), laureate of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards
  
• Voline Ogutu (Kenya), laureate of the UNESCO-Netflix Short Film Competition
  
• Maya Moussa (Lebanon), laureate of the UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education
  

Speakers discussed national initiatives in Uzbekistan that promote equal opportunities, as well as UNESCO’s support in expanding access to resources and recognition for women globally.

The laureates also described UNESCO recognition as a driver of new opportunities and global visibility. They noted that the awards provide credibility and support that can accelerate careers and improve working conditions in their fields.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to advancing gender equality as a pillar of peace and sustainable development. While speakers acknowledged progress since the Beijing Declaration — including rising female leadership, gains in education and reduced child marriage rates — they also pointed to the continuing effects of conflict, climate pressures and social change on women’s rights.

UNESCO confirmed it will continue efforts to address these challenges worldwide and strengthen international cooperation to support women and girls across all sectors.