Strengthening Inclusive Local Governance for Youth in Uzbekistan

In recent years, Uzbekistan has embarked on an ambitious reform of its local governance system, aiming to make public institutions more inclusive, accountable and results-oriented. One of the key challenges identified concerns the limited capacity of local governments to collect, analyse and use disaggregated data to design policies and services that effectively respond to the needs of children, adolescents, youth and families, particularly in the most vulnerable areas.

To address these gaps, within the framework of the UN Joint Programme “Inclusive Transformation for Youth and Child-Friendly Local Governance in Uzbekistan”, UNICEF, together with UNDP and the national implementation partner Yuksalish National Movement, is promoting the project “Strengthening Evidence-Based Decision-Making for Child- and Youth-Friendly Local Governance in Uzbekistan”.

More details

The ten -month project involves 12 pilot districts across four regions of the country, mobilising a multidisciplinary team of international and national experts and delivering a comprehensive programme of institutional support, training and capacity transfer. The intervention is designed as a progressive and integrated pathway aimed at systematically strengthening the ability of local administrations to take informed and inclusive decisions.

The initial phase includes an in-depth analysis of existing information systems, available data sources and the relevant institutional and regulatory framework, conducted through a structured desk review and a stakeholder mapping exercise at national and subnational levels.

Building on this assessment, Lattanzio KIBS supports the organisation and delivery of capacity-building workshops and facilitates dialogue among stakeholders across the 12 pilot districts. The active engagement of local authorities, young people, communities and civil society organisations helps identify shared priorities and establish a solid foundation for the development of operational tools tailored to local contexts.

The project then advances with the development of a methodological package and an Operational Toolkit, which are progressively tested and refined to ensure their effective integration into local administrative processes. Activities are complemented by advanced training programmes, on-the-job mentoring and the production of knowledge products, including learning reports and advocacy tools, to support the sustainability and replicability of the initiative.

Project Impact

The project strengthens local governance in Uzbekistan by institutionalising the use of disaggregated data in decision-making processes and promoting more equitable and inclusive public policies. Participating in administrations acquire practical skills and concrete tools to assess the needs of children and youth, improve the quality of planning and enhance transparency and accountability.

Thanks to the integrated approach adopted and the technical expertise provided by Lattanzio KIBS, the project lays the groundwork for lasting structural change. It fosters alignment between evidence, participation and public decision-making, reinforcing the role of local institutions as key actors in territorial development and in the protection of children’s and young people’s rights.