Women’s Leadership in the Mahalla System of Uzbekistan

Abstract

This article explores the growing role of women in Uzbekistan’s Mahalla (community self-governance) system from 2000 to 2016, emphasizing the impact of state reforms and gender policies initiated by the 2004 Presidential Decree “On Additional Measures to Support the Activities of the Women’s Committee of Uzbekistan.” The study reveals how structural changes—such as the introduction of advisors on religious enlightenment and moral education—created new opportunities for women’s engagement in community leadership. Statistical data demonstrate a steady increase in women’s representation: from 12% in 2000 to 40% by 2016. The article highlights the contributions of exemplary female leaders who transformed Mahallas into active centers of civic participation and moral development. The analysis concludes that gender equality policies, social education, and institutional reforms have significantly strengthened women’s leadership within local self-governing structures and advanced Uzbekistan’s democratic governance.