Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Photo: Press Service of the President of Uzbekistan
President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has proposed establishing a Global Fund for Social Justice to provide practical support to different countries in the fight against poverty. He announced the initiative at the World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar, according to the presidential press service.
Mirziyoyev noted that in recent years Uzbekistan has succeeded in reducing the poverty rate from 35% to 6.6%, and reforms in this field will continue. At the same time, he emphasized the need to strengthen international cooperation on this issue.
“It is time to create a new financial architecture for combating poverty that will attract resources to social programs in developing countries,” the president said.
He highlighted the importance of implementing modern mechanisms to effectively address employment challenges. Today, the development of advanced technologies and artificial intelligence is eliminating millions of jobs, which makes close collaboration between government, business, and society crucial for supporting workers and strengthening social partnership.
Mirziyoyev expressed hope that many countries will support the development of a “Global Initiative on Social Responsibility and Decent Work.”
Another key element in addressing social problems, he said, is expanding access to education for all. Experts estimate that the annual global economic damage caused by illiteracy amounts to $1.4 trillion. This negative factor makes it more difficult for young people to find their place in society and the labor market. The president supported the decisions adopted at the meeting of the Global Alliance to End Hunger and Poverty and proposed holding the next forum in Uzbekistan.
Mirziyoyev also drew special attention to the systemic protection of labor migrants and their families. He stated that Uzbekistan is ready, together with the International Labour Organization, to host a forum in Tashkent on this topic and to adopt a corresponding Global Program.
Issues related to climate change must also not be overlooked. Extreme weather events, desertification, and the loss of biodiversity are having a negative impact on farmers and seasonal workers in environmentally vulnerable regions. According to the president, there is an urgent need for comprehensive measures that integrate climate action with employment programs. Uzbekistan intends to launch a new model of social and economic development in the Aral Sea region and share this experience with the global community.
In conclusion, Mirziyoyev reaffirmed full support for the Doha Political Declaration adopted at the summit and expressed Uzbekistan’s determination to ensure the practical implementation of all its provisions.
