On 8 June, 2026, in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the SCO Center for Public Diplomacy in Uzbekistan, together with the Youth Parliament under the Senate of the Oliy Majlis and the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, organised the international women’s forum “Voices of SCO Women: From Society to the International Arena.”
The event brought together representatives of government and public organisations, scholars, senators, experts, young people, and activists from women’s organisations. The forum aimed to support women’s initiatives, develop women’s leadership potential, and expand their participation in political, economic, social, and academic life.
SCO Deputy Secretary-General Piao Yangfan highlighted the importance of gender equality and greater participation of women in science, education, innovation, and the economy. Mukarram Nurmatova and Malika Kadirkhanova also emphasised the need to create broader opportunities for women and young girls in public, academic, and entrepreneurial activities.
Kabuljon Sabirov, Director of the SCO Center for Public Diplomacy in Uzbekistan, stressed the importance of the forum for the development of public diplomacy and cultural and humanitarian cooperation. Victoria Khu, President of SCOLAR Network, also addressed the forum on behalf of the organisation, highlighting the importance of women’s leadership, international youth cooperation, and expanding opportunities for women across the SCO region.
As a result of the forum, participants proposed initiatives aimed at developing international cooperation platforms, expanding grant and educational programs, supporting women’s entrepreneurship, and encouraging greater participation of young women in science and innovation.
The forum became another important step towards advancing women’s leadership and strengthening cooperation among the SCO member states.
