The Center for Advancing Community Strengths and Social Wellbeing

Growing and Strengthening Uzbekistan's Social Protection System

The Uzbekistan-Columbia Center for Advancing Community Strengths and Social Wellbeing (UCC-ACSSW) is a trilateral research, education, and practice initiative operating across two institutional homes: within the National Agency for Social Protection of the Republic of Uzbekistan (NASP) in Tashkent, and within the Social Intervention Group (SIG) at Columbia University's School of Social Work (CSSW) in New York. UNICEF is the third founding partner. Together, the three institutions established the Center to strengthen Uzbekistan's social protection system through social work research, education, and evidence-based practice — and to serve as a model for the broader Central Asian region.

The Center brings together government, academia, and international expertise around a shared goal: a professional, coordinated, and community-rooted social work and social protection system that meaningfully improves the lives of vulnerable people across Uzbekistan.

Mission

The UCC-ACSSW is dedicated to strengthening social protection and wellbeing in Uzbekistan through evidence-based, sustainable approaches. The Center's mission is rooted in community-led initiatives that address poverty, child protection, mental health, gender-based violence, and other social challenges — while generating knowledge and models that can inform solutions across the region.

By integrating research, education, and practice, and working in partnership with government agencies, universities, UN bodies, and NGOs, the Center aims to build resilient, inclusive communities and develop the next generation of social work leaders and professionals.

Vision

To be a leading center of excellence in social work, social protection, and community development in Central Asia — driving innovation, rigorous research, and professional education in line with international standards, while remaining grounded in the realities and strengths of Uzbekistan's communities.

The Center envisions a society where every individual, family, and community has access to high-quality, evidence-based social services that promote wellbeing, inclusion, mental health, and social justice.