ADB-supported CAREC Program launches online community to empower women
The Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Program has launched an online community where women in central and west Asia can access educational resources and workshops and have opportunities for networking and mentorship.
The Program officially unveiled the CAREC Women’s Empowerment Online Platform (WEOP) in a virtual launch on 8 April, attended by around 150 stakeholders, gender experts, and women from CAREC member countries.
Ms. Lyaziza Sabyrova, Regional Head of the Regional Cooperation and Integration, Central and West Asia Department of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), described WEOP as “a gateway for empowerment” and “a digital space where ideas flourish, connections are made, and women’s potentials are unleashed.”
“Over the years, CAREC has been steadfast in its commitment to foster regional cooperation and economic development. We recognize that sustainable development is incomplete without the active and equal participation of women. The online platform we are launching today embodies our dedication to providing women with the tools they need to thrive in all facets of life,” she said in her welcome speech.
“The power of this initiative lies not just in its digital infrastructure but in the community it creates. As users navigate the portal, they will find a network of like-minded individuals, mentors, and role models who share a common goal – to uplift and empower women. Through this digital community, we hope to foster collaboration, inspiration, and support that transcends geographical boundaries,” Ms. Sabyrova added.
The CAREC Women’s Empowerment Online Platform aims to empower women in CAREC member countries by providing capacity development resources, networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration with stakeholders. The CAREC member countries are Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, People’s Republic of China, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Mongolia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
Once signed up, members of the platform will get access to the following: webinars and workshops for skills development; opportunities for networking; and publications related to gender-based issues and women empowerment.
Women from CAREC member countries may sign-up to become part of the WEOP through this link: https://weop.carecprogram.org/ Registration to the portal is free of charge.
The CAREC Program is a partnership of countries and development partners working together to promote sustainable development, accelerate economic growth, and reduce poverty. ADB hosts the CAREC Secretariat.