LocationsUzum Market Joins UNDP’s "Call Umida" Initiative
March 11, 2025
© UNDP Uzbekistan
Uzum Market and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have signed an agreement under the “Call Umida” initiative, a project aimed at creating a network of safe spaces for those experiencing street harassment and persecution. As a result, Uzbekistan’s largest online marketplace has become the initiative’s biggest partner in the country.
As part of the pilot launch, 179 Uzum Market pickup points across the country have already joined the initiative. Stickers indicating participation in the project will be placed at the entrances of these locations, making safe spaces easily recognizable. Employees at these pickup points have undergone special training to assist those seeking help and will continue to receive regular training. This ensures that women across the country can rely on these safe locations for support.
"We are delighted to welcome Uzum Market as a partner of the ’Call Umida’ initiative. It is timely that our cooperation begins now, on the eve of International Women’s Day, whose. This year’s theme is: For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment. At UNDP, we strongly believe that progress happens when we join forces. We invite everyone to support this initiative and contribute to building a safer and more equal society," said Akiko Fujii, UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan.
"This is not our first joint project with UNDP focused on gender equality. We have already trained more than 1,300 women across the country in digital literacy and entrepreneurship. Now, anyone who finds themselves in a difficult situation on the street can seek help and temporary shelter at our pickup points. It is crucial that people know: if a Uzum Market pickup point is nearby, they can go inside and find support. Once inside, in a safe environment they can decide what to do next," said Ilshat Khametov, CEO of Uzum Market.
About the "Call Umida" Initiative
The "Call Umida" initiative was launched in March 2022 to create a safer environment for women and children, who are particularly vulnerable to street violence and harassment. The initiative aims to promote zero tolerance for street harassment and increase safety in public spaces.
As part of the initiative, a network of safe spaces is being established in partner organizations such as supermarkets, restaurants, and pharmacies, based on principles of corporate social responsibility and voluntary participation. These locations provide individuals facing harassment or unwanted attention with a safe place to seek temporary refuge, call for help, or wait until they feel secure.
To date, the initiative has gained support from over 17 companies, creating a network of more than 350 safe locations. Additionally, over 8,000 employees from partner organizations have received training on how to assist individuals experiencing street harassment.
For more information about the initiative or to apply to join, click here.
