From Soviet Modernization to The Post-Soviet Era: The Historical Transformation of Women's Identity in Uzbekistan

Abstract

This study examines the transformation of women's identity in Uzbekistan from the Soviet era to the post-independence period, employing a historical and sociological perspective. During the Soviet period, state-led modernization policies promoted women's participation in education, employment, and public life, enhancing their visibility in the public sphere. However, these policies often conflicted with traditional cultural norms, leading to tensions in gender roles. Following independence in 1991, Uzbekistan's nation-building efforts sought to redefine national identity, balancing modernist aspirations with traditional Islamic values. This duality resulted in women navigating complex roles in both public and private spheres. Utilizing historical analysis and qualitative content analysis methods, this research draws upon official reports and literature reviews. Findings indicate that Uzbek women's identities have been shaped by both continuities and disruptions over time, reflecting an ongoing process of transformation influenced by political, cultural, and social factors.

Keywords: Sociocultural Transformation; Modernization; Soviet Policies; Women's Identity; Uzbek Women.