WOMEN IN CENTRAL ASIA IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP: BARRIERS AND FACTORS OF STATE SUPPORT

Abstract

This research is aimed at a comprehensive analysis of the state and characteristics of women’s entrepreneurship in the countries of Central Asia, the identification of key constraints to its development, as well as the determination of prospects and directions for government support. The relevance of the research is determined by several factors. First of all, the development of women’s entrepreneurship serves as an important tool for increasing employment and income levels, which is particularly significant in the context of economic instability. Furthermore, the growing involvement of women in business contributes to the creation of new economic niches, primarily in the service sector, trade, agriculture, and digital technologies. Finally, the support of women’s initiatives strengthens the ability of Central Asian states to integrate more actively into international economic processes in response to the challenges of globalization. Within the framework of this research, several scholarly objectives are addressed, including the examination of theoretical approaches to the concept of “women’s entrepreneurship” and its economic significance; the characterization of the current state of women’s business activities in the region; the identification of the main barriers and challenges limiting the development of women’s entrepreneurial activity; as well as the determination of potential directions for expanding women’s participation in the economic life of Central Asian countries. The methodological basis of the research relies on systemic and comparative analysis, the use of statistical data from international organizations (World Bank, EBRD, OECD), as well as materials from the national statistical authorities of the region’s countries. This combination makes it possible to provide a comprehensive and objective examination of the issue under study.