Women's Leadership, Digital Skills and a Beauty Training Initiative: Key Takeaways from the SCO Women's Forum

The forum brought together representatives of SCO member states, international organizations, businesses and civil society.

Women's leadership was the central theme of the event. Participants discussed the role of women in politics and the economy, entrepreneurship, digital technologies and international cooperation.

The forum was held as part of Kyrgyzstan's chairmanship of the SCO. According to the SCO Secretariat, participants explored ways to increase women's participation in public administration, support their professional development and create more opportunities for personal and career growth. The organization stressed that gender equality remains an essential pillar of sustainable development across the region.

A separate session focused on digital technologies. Delegates shared national initiatives aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs, improving digital skills and expanding opportunities created by new technologies.

Practical outcomes

The forum concluded not only with discussions but also with the launch of several joint initiatives.

According to Kaktus.media, the All-China Women's Federation presented the Congress of Women of Kyrgyzstan with a letter announcing the launch of a joint Kyrgyz-Chinese educational project in the beauty industry. The initiative envisions the opening of a training centre where women will be able to acquire professional beauty industry skills free of charge.

China will provide equipment for the project, while the Kyrgyz side will oversee its implementation. The first training centre is expected to open in Bishkek, with similar facilities planned for other regions in the future.

Chinese experts also held a beauty masterclass during the forum, introducing participants to modern makeup techniques and skincare practices. Those who completed the training received certificates.

Cultural programme

The business agenda was complemented by a cultural programme. Participants attended fashion shows by Kyrgyz designers, explored traditional crafts, sampled national cuisine and learned more about the country's cultural heritage. According to the organisers, these activities were intended to strengthen cultural ties among SCO member states.

What's next

The SCO Women's Forum was one of the flagship events of Kyrgyzstan's 2026 chairmanship of the organization. The recommendations adopted at the forum, along with the new initiatives announced during the event, are expected to support future joint projects in women's entrepreneurship, education, digital technologies and international cooperation.