5 February, Bishkek – UNDP Kyrgyzstan explored with government officials from key ministries the nexus of fiscal policy and gender equality, echoing the global call for equitable economies through UNDP's Equanomics initiative. The workshop served as a catalyzing force for change, empowering participants with the knowledge and tools needed to drive progress towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

Mehribon Khusainova, Head of the Human Resources Department at the Ministry of Economy and Commerce told: “Participating in the Gender Equality Award initiative has been a transformative experience for our ministry, prompting a comprehensive review of our operations through a gender lens. Through our primary gender analysis, we've identified areas for improvement, such as enhancing female representation in senior management and supporting work-life balance initiatives like flexible working hours and maternity leave. As we strive to ensure the socio-economic progress of the Kyrgyz Republic, integrating gender perspectives into our work is paramount, and we're optimistic that this project will deepen our understanding and drive meaningful change.”

Rooted in the belief that economies should work for everyone, regardless of gender, Equanomics seeks to dismantle the structures that perpetuate gender inequality. Through targeted interventions and strategic partnerships, Equanomics aims to end gender-based discrimination, lift women out of poverty, and create gender-equal economies that empower all individuals to thrive.

The recent training conducted by UNDP for civil servants from Ministry of Economy and Commerce, Ministry of Finance and Tax Services of the Kyrgyz Republic underscores the country's commitment to advancing gender equality through fiscal policy. By participating in the Gender Equality Award project, government agencies are taking proactive steps towards creating more inclusive and gender-equal societies, while, UNDP Kyrgyzstan is taking proactive steps to integrate Equanomics principles into agenda of national governance

A core tenet of Equanomics is the empowerment of women in the workforce. In line with this vision, the workshop in Kyrgyzstan prioritized initiatives to promote women's entrepreneurship and support women employees within government institutions. By advocating for policies that enhance work-life balance and create supportive environments for women, participants are laying the groundwork for more inclusive and gender-responsive workplaces.

"Cultivating gender equality isn't just a moral imperative; it's a strategic investment in the prosperity and resilience of our societies. Through Equanomics, UNDP is empowering nations to build economies that prioritize fairness and opportunity for all. By dismantling systemic barriers and fostering inclusive policies, we're not only advancing gender equality but unlocking the full potential of our economies and societies," said Alexandra Solovieva, UNDP Resident Representative. 

As the workshop concluded, participants emerged with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to advancing gender equality through fiscal policy and institutional reform. By aligning local efforts with the global Equanomics agenda, UNDP Kyrgyzstan is catalyzing change and paving the way for a more just and prosperous future. Together, we can build economies that work for everyone, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of gender. UNDP's workshop in Kyrgyzstan is a testament to the power of collective action in advancing the shared vision of equitable economies for all.