On June 19, Kazakhstan chaired the Central Asian Women’s Dialogue 2023 under the theme: “The role of women in the development of innovations and technologies”, organized by the Mazhilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan and the National Affairs Commission feminine, of the family. and demographic policy under the presidency of the Republic of Kazakhstan with the support of the United Nations. The event brought together more than 150 participants, including women parliamentarians from Central Asia, representatives of state agencies, international and non-governmental organizations and experts.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Aida Balayeva, Chairwoman of the National Commission for Women’s Affairs, Family and Demographic Policy under the President of the Republic, emphasized the integration of women’s efforts active women of the countries of the Central Asian region, including the business women community, academic and scientific circles, non-governmental and civil sectors. “We believe this platform can help us solve common problems and improve the quality of life of women and our families, especially in the face of global and regional challenges.” said Balaeva.
Tanzila Narbaeva, Chairman of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, said: “The role of innovation and technology is very important for our region. We should not limit ourselves to discussing this topic only today. Sustainability and the implementation of interesting joint projects are priorities for us keys.”
“The employment of women in science, technology and engineering is still relevant today. I believe that in all areas, the rights and contribution of women are vital for the future, including in the development of technology and innovation”, said Jamilya Isaeva, Deputy Chairman of the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic. She also highlighted that subregional consultations of Central Asian partners were held in Bishkek on the eve of 67th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW67) with the agenda of innovation, technological progress and education in the digital age.
The session was moderated by Daniya Espayeva, Deputy Speaker of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan, who spoke about digitalization, one of the priorities identified by the dialogue as a new effective tool for the active participation of women in society and ‘economy.
Participants in the dialogue drew attention to the structural and economic problems faced by women. For example, more than 60 million women do not have access to mobile Internet and therefore miss out on learning and economic development opportunities more often than men. At the same time, experts emphasized that modern digital transformation can open up opportunities to expand women’s economic and social rights and opportunities and can be used to promote gender equality, which is a goal for all states. ‘Central Asia.
“By harnessing the potential of technology, we can close the gender gap, expand access to education and healthcare, provide economic opportunities, amplify women’s voices and strengthen their participation in decision-making decision. Through innovative solutions, we can create a future where Central Asian women and girls are empowered, connected and equipped to overcome barriers,” » said Elisa Fernández Sáenz, Deputy Regional Director of UN Women, in her opening speech.
The dialogue included a thematic session on “best practices in the field of innovation and technological development with the participation of women”. The participants discussed digital projects, ranging from the development of women’s startups, artificial intelligence, digitalization in rural areas, as well as developments aimed at solving current problems of family and society, from women’s entrepreneurship, vocational education and employment.
Nilufar Mourodovaco-founder of iCode, a non-profit social project in Tajikistan, presented a program aimed at training women and girls in the field of information technology (IT). “Our unique project in Tajikistan helps train women and girls on topics such as IOS, Android and UI/XI development. Following the training, we organize a paid internship for them and they then get a job. I came here because I want to get inspired by other entrepreneurs and find business partners at this event,” Murodova said.
Aidai Ismailova, founder of “Techno Women Kyrgyzstan“, an NGO working to provide new opportunities for women and girls in IT said: “We have developed an IT hub through private investment, where we have created a community for the IT sector and where we actively cooperate with women’s groups. I would like to invite other IT hubs to sign memorandums so that together we can promote Central Asia in global markets. said Ismailova.
At the end of the event, participants adopted an action plan, which includes an international conference on women, peace and security to be held in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
Learn more about the Central Asian Women’s Dialogue here.