1 in 7
Children live with HIV
Living with HIV
HIV/AIDS is a growing concern in Uzbekistan. As a transit country for drug-trafficking, drug use has increased, especially in urban areas. In Uzbekistan, around 10% of HIV-related deaths are of children under 18 years. In the Tashkent region, almost 15% of children under 18 years are living with HIV.
Children from families living with HIV/AIDS face psychosocial stress, limited parenting capacities, financial deprivation, and the inability to pay school fees. However, when children themselves are living with HIV/AIDS, they face additional limited educational opportunities because they are often ill.
3 in 5
Young children are missing out on early learning
Lack of education
The Tashkent region has the lowest rate of early childhood education in Uzbekistan, with only 39% of children having access to pre-schools. As a result, the Tashkent region has one of the highest rates of out-of-school children.
Early childhood education can be particularly beneficial for disadvantaged children, setting them up for success in the further stages of education, enabling them to score higher marks and reducing the likelihood of repeating a grade. Children in pre-school are also less likely to be victims of abuse or neglect, thereby reducing the need for child welfare services.
Your support makes a difference for children in Tashkent
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
Are supported on their way to independence
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Children are excited about drawing outside in the garden. SOS Children's Villages supports families in providing an environment where their children can develop and flourish (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Uzbekistan).
How your support helps in Tashkent
Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run training so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start their own businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.