THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS IN STRENGTHENING WOMEN’S LEGAL PROTECTION AND SOCIAL STATUS: THE CASE OF UZBEKISTAN

Аннотация

International legal standards have become a cornerstone in the global effort to eliminate gender-based discrimination and violence. This article examines how key international instruments – notably the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) influence national legal frameworks, with a focus on Uzbekistan. It outlines CEDAW’s broad obligations comprehensive approach to violence against women, and analyzes their worldwide impact on domestic legislation and discourse. The article then traces Uzbekistan’s integration of these norms: from the 1995 ratification of CEDAW and constitutional gender equality guarantees, to landmark national laws on gender equality and protection from violence (2019), criminalization of domestic abuse (2023), and adoption of a 2030 Gender Equality Strategy. Despite significant reforms, persistent challenges – social stereotypes, enforcement gaps, and resource limitations – hinder full realization of women’s rights. The conclusion emphasizes that international law has been a catalyst for progress in Uzbekistan, but sustained commitment, institutional strengthening, and civic engagement are essential to bridge the gap between formal rights and lived reality. Keywords: International Law, CEDAW, Women’s Rights, Gender Equality, Uzbekistan, Domestic Violence, Legal Reform