Uzbekistan and UN Discuss Expansion of Volunteer Cooperation

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A delegation from Uzbekistan held talks with the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program during the Asia Partners Roundtable held on 12–13 May 2026, at the UN Campus in Bonn, Germany.

The meeting was attended by Shirin Abidova, advisor to the Director of the Youth Affairs Agency of Uzbekistan, and Toily Kurbanov, Executive Coordinator of UNV.

Discussions focused on expanding international cooperation in volunteerism in the context of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development 2026. Participants emphasized the importance of broadening volunteer initiatives both across Asia and globally.

The Uzbek side presented its national volunteer development program within the framework of the “Youth of New Uzbekistan 2030” strategy. The program aims to expand public access to volunteering, develop initiatives through the mahalla system, and increase youth participation in international projects.

According to Shirin Abidova, volunteering in Uzbekistan is viewed not only as a form of civic engagement but also as a tool for developing human capital and strengthening international cooperation.

She highlighted the importance of partnership with UNV and participation in the full funding program, which provides opportunities for training and placement of Uzbek specialists on the international stage.

UNV Executive Coordinator Toily Kurbanov noted that Uzbekistan’s participation in the full funding program strengthens the country’s role in the global volunteer system and contributes to building a sustainable support infrastructure for volunteers.

During the talks, it was also confirmed that from August, the first three international UN volunteers from Uzbekistan will begin assignments in Qatar, Singapore, and Türkiye. Their work will focus on youth employment, environmental issues, and artificial intelligence.