Visiting Fellow Program Highlights the Impact of Horticulture on Women's Well-being in Uzbek Villages

A visiting fellow program paper titled “Horticulture versus Cotton: A Comparative Qualitative Analysis of Women’s Well-being in Uzbek Villages,” authored by Ms. Suray Charyyeva, sheds light on the significant differences in women’s well-being associated with horticultural and cotton farming practices in Uzbekistan. Conducted under the auspices of the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Institute, this research emphasizes the critical role of agricultural practices in shaping the socio-economic landscape for women in rural areas.

The study reveals that women engaged in horticulture experience enhanced well-being compared to their counterparts in cotton farming. Through extensive interviews with 43 respondents, including farmers and workers, the research highlights how horticulture not only provides better economic opportunities but also fosters greater autonomy and empowerment among women. The findings suggest that the cultivation of diverse crops leads to improved household nutrition and economic stability, thereby positively influencing women’s roles within their families and communities.

Ms. Charyyeva advocates for policy reforms that prioritize horticultural development as a means to uplift women’s status in rural Uzbekistan. She calls for increased support from local governments and agricultural institutions to facilitate access to resources, training, and markets for female farmers. By promoting horticulture, the study argues, stakeholders can significantly enhance women’s well-being and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

This research serves as a vital resource for policymakers, development agencies, and scholars interested in gender equality and agricultural development. It underscores the importance of understanding the nuanced impacts of different farming practices on women’s lives and offers actionable recommendations to foster a more equitable agricultural landscape in Uzbekistan.