Uzbekistan is one of the poorest republics of the former Soviet Union (FSU). Though there is little anti-Semitism in Uzbekistan, poverty is rampant. Within the closely knit Bukharan community, the elderly and disabled are cared for as best they can given the community’s limited funds. The elderly and disabled, as well as impoverished Jewish families of the Ashkenazim community often must struggle alone, deprived of strong communal ties.

JDC has been working hard to bring relief to those most in need, to strengthen ties to Jewish traditions, and to help both communities build a strong communal infrastructure that will ensure the continuation and growth of Jewish communal life in Uzbekistan.

With a cadre of committed Uzbeki Jews, we have built a Jewish home in Tashkent which houses the welfare center and the community center. The center is a beehive of activity day and night and is considered the Jewish address for the 10,000 Jews in Tashkent. An active Hillel sponsored by JDC is located nearby.

With pride and tenacity, the Ashkenazi and Bukharan Jews are rebuilding Jewish life in Uzbekistan.

2005