LocationsUNDP and EU Support Practical Training on Integrating Gender Approaches into Anti-Corruption Activities in Uzbekistan
May 15, 2026
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Uzbekistan, together with the Anti-Corruption Agency and with funding support from the European Union (EU), organized a practical training session titled “Integration of Gender Approach into Anti-Corruption Activities” for women-led civil society organizations, representatives of government agencies, and social activists. The training focused on helping participants better understand how corruption affects women and men differently and how anti-corruption efforts can become more inclusive, transparent, and effective.
The training focused on practical approaches to identifying and preventing gender-related corruption risks and integrating gender-sensitive approaches into anti-corruption policies and professional practice. Sessions examined corruption not only as bribery or financial abuse, but also as misuse of power through pressure, dependency, abuse of influence, coercion, and sexual exploitation. Discussions also referred to international standards, including the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), as well as Uzbekistan’s anti-corruption legislation.
Particular attention was given to how corruption affects women and men differently due to unequal access to resources, services, decision-making, and economic opportunities. Participants explored corruption risks in sectors such as healthcare, education, social protection, business, and public procurement, as well as the impact of informal payments, abuse of authority, and political influence. Special focus was placed on sextortion, a hidden form of corruption involving demands for sexual favors in exchange for services or opportunities, and the barriers that often prevent victims from reporting such cases.
The programme also examined broader factors contributing to corruption, including weak transparency and accountability systems, economic inequality, and the normalization of corrupt practices. Through case studies and group exercises, participants explored practical solutions such as safer complaint mechanisms, stronger protection measures, transparent procedures, digital tools, and stronger cooperation between state institutions and civil society. A dedicated session additionally highlighted gender equality as an important foundation for effective governance, public trust, and sustainable development.
Mahfuza Nosirova, Head of the NGO “Azim Tafakkur,” noted that the training gave participants “new perspectives on the connection between corruption and gender inequality” and helped them better understand how corruption risks affect women and vulnerable groups in everyday life. She particularly highlighted the practical case studies and interactive exercises, adding that the knowledge gained would be useful for strengthening legal awareness and increasing sensitivity to corruption risks in future work.
Nargiza Lutfullayeva, Chief Specialist of the Compliance Service Department of the Tashkent Regional Hokimiyat, noted that the training was “especially useful for exchanging experience and building new professional connections” between representatives of state institutions and civil society organizations. She also highlighted that the practical exercises helped strengthen skills needed to advance gender-sensitive anti-corruption approaches in professional work.
The event was organized within the framework of the joint project of the Anti-Corruption Agency and UNDP, funded by the European Union, “Strengthening the National Anti-Corruption Ecosystem in Uzbekistan.” The project supports Uzbekistan’s anti-corruption reforms by strengthening institutions, promoting transparency and accountability, encouraging public participation, and advancing inclusive and evidence-based approaches to preventing and combating corruption.
For additional information and media inquiries:
Fotima Turgunboeva, UNDP Uzbekistan, at fotima.turgunboeva@undp.org
