World Bank recognizes Uzbekistan as one of top five improvers in gender equality laws

In 2025, the World Bank formally recognised Uzbekistan as one of the top five improvers in gender equality laws, reflecting the country’s recent legal reforms that significantly strengthened women’s rights and legal protections. According to the Women, Business and the Law report, which assesses gender‑related legal frameworks across 190 economies, Uzbekistan was cited among the five nations that made the most progress in advancing legal gender equality between October 2022 and October 2023. Key reforms included mandating equal pay for work of equal value and removing restrictions on women’s employment in certain industries, as well as enacting legal protections against domestic violence through amendments to the Criminal Code and related laws. These reforms contributed to a marked improvement in Uzbekistan’s gender equality score and raised its overall position in the index. The World Bank’s recognition highlights Uzbekistan’s efforts to align domestic legislation with international standards on gender equality and women’s economic rights. By improving laws governing pay, workplace participation, and protection from violence, Uzbekistan not only expanded legal rights for women but also signaled a broader commitment to inclusive development and economic empowerment. While challenges remain in areas such as employment outcomes and labour market participation, the progress acknowledged by the World Bank demonstrates tangible legal advancements that could help reduce gender gaps and promote equitable opportunities. Overall, the recognition as one of the top five improvers underscores how sustained legal reform can contribute to greater gender equality within national legal systems.