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Иқтисодий тадқиқотлар ва ислоҳотлар маркази Ўзбекистон цемент саноатида углерод чиқиндиларини камайтириш бўйича илк комплекс баҳолаш натижаларини тақдим этди
Иқтисодий тадқиқотлар ва ислоҳотлар маркази Ўзбекистон цемент саноатида углерод чиқиндиларини камайтириш бўйича илк комплекс баҳолаш натижаларини тақдим этди

Тошкент шаҳрида Ўзбекистон цемент саноатида иссиқхона газлари чиқиндилари бўйича илк тизимли баҳолаш натижалари муҳокама қилинди ҳамда паст углеродли иқтисодиётга ўтиш шароитида технологик модернизациянинг устувор йўналишлари маҳаллий ва халқаро экспертлар иштирокида муҳокама қилинди.

Тошкент, 2026 йил 28 апрель. Иқтисодий тадқиқотлар ва ислоҳотлар маркази (Марказ) Бирлашган Миллатлар Ташкилотининг Тараққиёт дастури (БМТТД) билан ҳамкорликда Ўзбекистон цемент саноатида углерод чиқиндиларини камайтириш масалаларига бағишланган давра суҳбатини ўтказди.

Тадбирда давлат ташкилотлари, соҳа мутахассислари, олимлар, саноат корхоналари, молия ташкилотлари ҳамда халқаро ташкилотлар вакиллари иштирок этди.

Тадбирдан мақсад цемент саноатида иссиқхона газлари чиқиндилари бўйича ўтказилган баҳолаш натижаларини муҳокама қилиш, шунингдек тармоқни технологик модернизация қилиш ва паст углеродли ривожланишга ўтиш бўйича амалий ёндашувларни ишлаб чиқишдан иборат бўлди.

Тадбирда сўзга чиққан Марказ директорининг ўринбосари Нозимжон Ортиқов тармоқни ривожлантириш ва углерод изини камайтириш ўзаро боғлиқ вазифалар эканини таъкидлади. Унинг сўзларига кўра, цемент ишлаб чиқаришни модернизация қилиш бир вақтнинг ўзида иқтисодий ўсишни таъминлаш ва тармоқнинг экологик барқарорлигини ошириш имконини беради.

Ўзбекистондаги БМТТД доимий вакилининг ўринбосари Анас Карман қурилиш соҳасининг мамлакат иқтисодиётидаги муҳим ўрнини таъкидлаб, цемент ишлаб чиқаришда паст углеродли ечимларни жадал жорий этиш зарурлигини қайд этди.

Марказ мутахассислари Абдурашид Бозоров ва Бахтиёр Исмоилов цемент саноатида иссиқхона газлари чиқиндилари бўйича комплекс базавий баҳолаш натижаларини тақдим этди. Ушбу баҳолаш иқлим ўзгариши бўйича Ҳукуматлараро экспертлар гуруҳи методологияси асосида тайёрланган.

Цемент саноатини декарбонизация қилиш Ўзбекистоннинг халқаро иқлим мажбуриятлари нуқтаи назаридан алоҳида аҳамият касб этмоқда. Янгиланган мақсадларга мувофиқ, мамлакат 2035 йилга қадар ялпи ички маҳсулотнинг углерод сиғимини 2010 йилга нисбатан 50 фоизга камайтиришни режалаштирмоқда. Шунингдек, 2060 йилга бориб углерод нейтраллигига эришиш имкониятлари ҳам кўриб чиқилмоқда.

Шу билан бирга, цемент саноати барқарор ўсишни намоён этмоқда. Сўнгги йилларда ишлаб чиқариш ҳажми икки баравардан ортиқ ошиб, 2019 йилдаги 10,5 миллион тоннадан ҳозирги кунда 20 миллион тоннадан зиёд кўрсаткичга етди. Экспертлар фикрича, инфратузилма ва қурилиш соҳасининг ривожланиши туфайли талаб юқори даражада сақланиб қолади.

Тақдим этилган маълумотларга кўра, мамлакатда йиллик умумий қуввати тахминан 37 миллион тонна бўлган 24 та цемент заводи фаолият юритмоқда. Шу билан бирга, амалдаги ишлаб чиқариш ҳажми тахминан 21,5 миллион тоннани ташкил этмоқда.

Таҳлиллар шуни кўрсатадики, энг йирик 13 та корхона умумий ишлаб чиқариш ҳажмининг қарийб 95 фоизини таъминламоқда. Бу эса ишлаб чиқаришнинг юқори даражада жамланганини кўрсатиб, технологик модернизация учун қулай шароитлар яратиш зарурлигини англатади.

Марказ баҳолашларига кўра, цементнинг асосий таркибий қисми бўлган клинкер ишлаб чиқариш босқичида углерод диоксиди чиқиндилари йилига тахминан 9 миллион тоннани ташкил этади (энергия сарфи, ёқилғи ва транспорт харажатлари ҳисобга олинмаган ҳолда). Шу муносабат билан, йирик корхоналарни модернизация қилиш тармоқда чиқиндиларни камайтириш салоҳиятининг асосий қисмини таъминлаши қайд этилди.

Тадқиқот натижалари, жумладан цемент ишлаб чиқаришнинг тахминан тўртдан уч қисмини таъминлайдиган 16 та етакчи корхона ўртасида ўтказилган сўров ҳамда халқаро кўрсаткичлар билан таққослама таҳлиллар тармоқда углерод изини камайтириш бўйича катта имкониятлар мавжудлигини кўрсатмоқда. Хусусан, бу салоҳият цемент таркибини оптималлаштириш, ишлаб чиқаришда энергия самарадорлигини ошириш ва муқобил ёқилғи турларидан фойдаланишни кенгайтириш билан боғлиқ.

Шу билан бирга, тармоқни янада ривожлантириш ва “яшил” инвестицияларни жалб этиш молиялаштириш шароитларини такомиллаштиришни, замонавий технологияларга кириш имкониятларини кенгайтиришни, тартибга солувчи жараёнларни соддалаштиришни, шунингдек малакали кадрлар тайёрлаш ва экологик тоза маҳсулотларга бўлган талабни шакллантиришни талаб этади.

Энергия самарадорлигини ошириш, клинкер улушини камайтириш, ортиқча иссиқликни қайта ишлатиш технологияларини жорий этиш ва углеродни ушлаб қолиш ечимларини ривожлантиришни ўз ичига олган чора-тадбирлар мажмуасини амалга ошириш чиқиндиларни барқарор камайтириш ҳамда тармоқ рақобатбардошлигини ошириш имконини беради.

 

Иқтисодий тадқиқотлар ва ислоҳотлар маркази

Жамоатчилик билан алоқалар бўлими

Tashkent to Host Second Meeting of Termez Dialogue on Connectivity Between Central and South Asia on June 4–6
Tashkent to Host Second Meeting of Termez Dialogue on Connectivity Between Central and South Asia on June 4–6

On 4-6 June, Tashkent will host the second meeting of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia under the theme: “Peace, Connectivity, and Resilience: Shaping the Foundation for Shared Prosperity”.

Established in 2025 as a permanent international platform, the Termez Dialogue is intended to facilitate the practical advancement of the initiative put forward by the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, aimed at strengthening interconnectivity between Central and South Asia. This initiative has received broad international support and was enshrined in a special resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 11 July 2022.

The current meeting is organized by the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the Head of our State and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan in partnership with the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA).

The forum will bring together more than 150 representatives of political, business, and expert communities, as well as international and regional organizations from Central and South Asia, Europe, the CIS, the South Caucasus, the Asia-Pacific region, the Middle East, and the Americas. This underscores the inclusive and open nature of the Termez Dialogue as a comprehensive international platform for developing joint approaches to strengthening connectivity, trust, and sustainable development across the Eurasian space.

Partners and participants of the Dialogue include the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA), the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), as well as leading think tanks, research institutions, and peacebuilding organizations, including the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), the Center for Progressive Reforms, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, the Berghof Foundation, PeaceNexus, Search for Common Ground, Georgetown University, and other organizations.

The forum programme includes a high-level plenary session on the theme: “Political Dialogue and Economic Connectivity as Pillars of Sustainable Development in the CICA Region”, as well as two special thematic sessions dedicated to joint climate change adaptation and environmental sustainability, and to deepening cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

The event will also feature expert and academic discussions, as well as side events devoted to regional security, expanding engagement with Afghanistan, including the development of the Afghanistan–Uzbekistan–Pakistan dialogue, strengthening transport and logistics connectivity, fostering regional trust, and advancing a common sustainable development agenda. Particular attention will be paid to issues of Central Asian regional identity, as well as to expanding youth cooperation in the fields of peacebuilding and sustainable development.

The forum programme also envisages off-site sessions. Participants of the Dialogue are scheduled to visit Termez, where they will have an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the modern trade, economic, and logistics infrastructure supporting cooperation with South Asian countries, including the operations of the Airitom International Trade Center and the international logistics hub Termez Cargo Center, as well as experience the rich cultural and historical heritage of the ancient city.

The third day of the Dialogue will take place in Samarkand, where delegates will explore the unique civilizational heritage of the Samarkand Renaissance, which historically served as a bridge between East and West, North and South.

The meeting is expected to conclude with the adoption of a Communiqué intended to reaffirm the commitment to strengthening trust, advancing constructive cooperation, and promoting sustainable connectivity between Central and South Asia.

 

Dunyo IA

The Termez Dialogue: From Connectivity to Shared Climate Resilience Dinara Ravilevna Ziganshina, SIC ICWC
The Termez Dialogue: From Connectivity to Shared Climate Resilience Dinara Ravilevna Ziganshina, SIC ICWC

Central and South Asia are increasingly facing the same reality: climate risks are no longer a distant forecast. Droughts, water scarcity, heatwaves, land degradation, dust storms, floods, and pressure on water, food and energy security are already affecting economies, public health, infrastructure, and the resilience of entire regions.

This is why the second meeting of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia is of particular significance. The second meeting is organized by the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in partnership with the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia. This format reflects Uzbekistan’s consistent foreign policy direction aimed at strengthening trust, open dialogue, and sustainable connectivity between the regions.

While the first meeting introduced the Termez Dialogue as a platform for bringing the two regions closer together, the new agenda takes the next step: moving from a discussion of connectivity to practical mechanisms for joint climate adaptation and stronger environmental resilience. Its task is to move from conceptual discussions to concrete priorities and practical mechanisms, with joint adaptation to climate change identified among the key areas of cooperation.

Climate as a New Test of Connectivity

Climate change shows how closely water, food, energy, transport, health, and ecosystems are linked. When water availability declines, the impact is not limited to agriculture. It also affects hydropower, food prices, migration, employment, soil conditions, and even regional stability. As extreme heat becomes more frequent, cities, transport systems, healthcare systems, and labour productivity all come under pressure.

The Synthesis Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), prepared as part of the Sixth Assessment Cycle, emphasizes that adaptation is already taking place in all regions of the world, but the gap between what is needed and what is being done remains and will continue to grow at the current pace of action. The IPCC also underlines that the most effective responses are not isolated measures, but integrated solutions that connect water management, agriculture, infrastructure, social protection, ecosystems, and population needs.

This is particularly important for Central and South Asia. Both regions depend on mountain watersheds, irrigated agriculture, the resilience of rural areas, as well as stable and secure energy supply and the cross-border movement of goods and people. Climate adaptation, therefore, cannot remain solely a matter of national policy. It must become part of interregional cooperation.

Uzbekistan: The Data Confirm the Urgency of Action

Uzbekistan’s Fourth National Communication under the UNFCCC identifies the country as among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change in Central Asia and Eurasia. This vulnerability is linked to accelerated temperature rise, growing water scarcity, glacier retreat, and the increasing frequency of extreme hydrometeorological events.

Water remains an especially sensitive factor. Uzbekistan’s water resources belong to the Aral Sea basin, while the main surface runoff of the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers is formed outside the country. This means that Uzbekistan’s climate resilience is directly linked to the quality of regional and interregional cooperation. Water, data, forecasts, infrastructure, and trust become part of one security system.

Cities as a New Frontline of Climate Adaptation

The climate agenda is also becoming increasingly connected with the future of cities. Speaking at the Leaders’ Summit of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum in Baku, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted that, over the next 15 years, the country’s population is expected to grow from 38 to 50 million people, while the urbanization rate is projected to rise from 51% to 65%.

For Uzbekistan, this is not only a demographic trend but also a climate challenge. Urban growth increases pressure on water, energy, transport, housing, air quality, and green spaces. Therefore, plans for sustainable urbanization — including the development of “green”, “smart”, “safe”, and “15-minute” cities, the expansion of urban greenery, and the introduction of green city principles — are directly linked to climate adaptation.

In this context, the Termez Dialogue can become a platform for exchanging experience not only on water and agriculture, but also on climate-resilient urban development: from reducing the urban heat island effect and saving water to clean transport, digital air quality monitoring, and designing new districts with climate risks in mind.

A New Emphasis: Adaptation as a Practical Development Agenda

The Termez Dialogue can offer an important new approach: to view adaptation not as a response to crises, but as an investment in sustainable development. This changes the very language of climate policy.

Adaptation is not only about building protective infrastructure or responding to emergencies. It is about more accurate forecasting of droughts and floods and data exchange between countries. It is about water-saving agriculture, the modernization of canals, pumping stations, and urban infrastructure. It is about restoring degraded lands and ecosystems. It is about preparing farmers, engineers, hydrologists, energy specialists, and local authorities to operate under new climate conditions.

This is why the Concept of the second meeting of the Termez Dialogue emphasizes the consolidation of efforts by states and partners to develop coordinated and mutually reinforcing approaches to climate adaptation and to reducing the socio-economic consequences of climate and environmental risks.

Why Central and South Asia Must Adapt Together

Climate risks do not recognize borders. Drought in one part of the region can affect food markets in another. Glacier retreat changes river regimes far beyond mountain areas. Dust storms, heatwaves, and extreme rainfall can affect several countries at once. Joint adaptation is therefore a practical necessity.

The IPCC stresses that around 3.3 to 3.6 billion people worldwide live in conditions of high vulnerability to climate change. It also emphasizes that the vulnerability of people and ecosystems is interconnected: the degradation of ecosystems increases risks for people, while social vulnerability reduces societies’ ability to adapt.

For Central and South Asia, this means that resilience must be built across several dimensions at once: water, food, energy, environment, and society. Food and environmental security cannot be strengthened without water. Infrastructure cannot be modernized without climate forecasts. Risks cannot be reduced without trust and information exchange.

Termez as a Place for Climate Partnership

The choice of Termez has both historical and practical significance. Termez is Uzbekistan’s southern gateway and a natural bridge between Central and South Asia. In today’s conditions, this role acquires new meaning: the city is becoming a symbol not only of transport and trade connectivity, but also of climate partnership.

Afghanistan has a particularly important role. The idea of the Termez Dialogue implies the need for the gradual integration of Afghanistan into regional economic, transport, humanitarian, and climate processes with the support of the international community. In the climate agenda, this is especially meaningful: without Afghanistan’s participation, it is impossible to build genuinely sustainable connectivity between Central and South Asia.

What the Termez Dialogue Can Deliver

The Termez Dialogue can become a platform for launching several practical areas of cooperation.

First, the exchange of climate and hydrological data, including forecasts of droughts, floods, glacier changes, and dust storms.

Second, the joint promotion of early warning systems, so that countries can prepare in advance for extreme weather events.

Third, the development of climate-resilient agriculture: water-saving technologies, drought-resistant crops, digital services for farmers, and the restoration of pastures and soils.

Fourth, ecosystem-based adaptation — the restoration of forests, wetlands, mountain and desert ecosystems that themselves serve as natural protection against climate risks.

Fifth, climate-resilient infrastructure — from transport corridors and logistics centres to energy facilities and rapidly growing cities.

From a Common Challenge to Shared Resilience

The main value of the Termez Dialogue is that it allows the climate agenda to be discussed not in the language of alarm, but in the language of joint solutions. Central and South Asia can not only exchange risk assessments, but also create common adaptation mechanisms: from scientific networks and pilot projects to investment programmes and regional standards for resilient infrastructure.

The new climate agenda of the Termez Dialogue is part of the larger idea of connectivity. Genuine connectivity is not only about roads, trade, and energy corridors. It is also about the capacity of countries to jointly protect ecosystems, human health, and the future of coming generations. The Termez Dialogue can become the space where Central and South Asia move from recognizing their shared vulnerability to building shared resilience.

 

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PARLIAMENTARISM: SIGNIFICANCE, CHALLENGES, AND PROSPECTS IN THE GLOBAL DEMOCRATIC AGENDA
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PARLIAMENTARISM: SIGNIFICANCE, CHALLENGES, AND PROSPECTS IN THE GLOBAL DEMOCRATIC AGENDA

Parliamentarianism in the Face of Global Challenges
 
Parliaments play a key role in the system of democratic governance, ensuring the representation of citizens' interests, exercising oversight of the executive branch, and carrying out legislative functions. In the context of increasing global polarization, declining trust in state institutions, and growing pressure on freedom of expression and parliamentary independence, the question of rethinking and strengthening the role of parliaments becomes particularly relevant.
In this context, the International Day of Parliamentarism, observed annually on June 30, takes on not only symbolic but also practical significance. It underscores the role of parliaments as key pillars of democratic transformations while simultaneously serving as a global platform for addressing current challenges, advancing institutional reforms, and developing innovative models of representation that align with the political and social realities of the 21st century.
Modern parliaments are expanding beyond internal regulatory institutions to become active participants in the global political and legal architecture, engaging in the resolution of transnational challenges such as climate change, digital transformation, migration crises, public health protection, and human rights safeguarding. In this context, parliamentary diplomacy, transparency, and inclusiveness are acquiring a new dimension.
As emphasized in official UN documents, "strong parliaments are the foundation of democracy," because they "reflect the will of the people, pass laws, and hold governments accountable." It is no coincidence that UN Secretary-General António Guterres, in his address on the International Day of Parliamentarism on June 30, 2018, noted that "Parliaments can be pillars of democracy, important defenders of human rights, and a link between local and global issues. Through legislative and budgetary decisions, they can contribute significantly to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals."
In April 2025, the capital of Uzbekistan hosted the 150th anniversary Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union for the first time - an event of historic scale for Central Asia. The forum, held under the theme "Parliamentary Action for Social Development and Justice," gathered about 1,400 delegates from approximately 130 countries, including over 100 speakers and deputy speakers of national parliaments.
Opening the Assembly, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized the significance of the event and the scale of participation: "You are like a strong bridge connecting peoples with firm friendship. You are a powerful force capable of perceiving the concerns and problems of ordinary people, elevating them, if necessary, to the regional and international level, and finding effective solutions for them." The Head of State noted that participation in the Inter-Parliamentary Union reflects confidence in efforts towards democratic reforms and the expansion of parliamentary powers. He also expressed confidence in the role of parliaments as a key mechanism for peacemaking, social development, and justice.
 
The Establishment of International Parliamentarism Day
 
The date of the celebration - June 30 - is symbolic: it was on this day in 1889 that the Inter-Parliamentary Union was established, laying the foundation for organized international cooperation between legislative bodies and the formation of modern parliamentary diplomacy.
The establishment of the International Day of Parliamentarism dates back to UN General Assembly Resolution A/RES/72/278 of May 22, 2018, adopted at the initiative of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in connection with its 130th anniversary. Founded by two pacifists - British William Cremer and French Frédéric Passy - the Inter-Parliamentary Union was originally conceived as a platform for peaceful arbitration and dialogue. Over time, it has transformed into a unique global platform for parliamentary diplomacy and inclusivity. During the Cold War and in the post-colonial world, the Inter-Parliamentary Union maintained neutrality and became a rare space for dialogue between opposing blocs, and later - a link between parliaments and UN structures.
To date, the Inter-Parliamentary Union unites 181 national and 15 regional parliaments and serves as a central institution in parliamentary diplomacy, promoting gender equality, protecting human rights, and fostering sustainable development. According to the Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Martin Chungong, "modern parliaments must develop significantly to meet the demands of today's world."
The proclamation of this day became a legal recognition of both the historical and contemporary role of parliaments as institutions of popular sovereignty, democracy, and parliamentary oversight. The Inter-Parliamentary Union played a key role in shaping parliamentary diplomacy practices, promoting inclusivity, equality, and transparency, and establishing the principles of the rule of law at the international level.
Resolution 72/278 not only immortalized this historic date but also gave it modern significance, emphasizing the central role of national legislative bodies in ensuring accountability, transparency, human rights protection, adherence to the principle of the rule of law, as well as in implementing the international obligations of states within the framework of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
From a historical and legal perspective, the establishment of the International Day of Parliamentarism should be viewed as an act of institutionalizing global recognition of parliamentarism's significance in the development of democracy and the rule of law. Furthermore, the resolution documented the contribution of parliaments to the implementation of national plans and strategies, as well as their responsibility for monitoring the execution of international agreements. This strengthens the legal status of parliaments within the national, regional, and global governance systems.
 
International Day of Parliamentarism: Key Objectives and Priorities
 
The International Day of Parliamentarism serves as an institutional mechanism for stimulating parliamentary development, a catalyst for institutional self-analysis, and a platform for transnational dialogue in the realm of lawmaking and parliamentary oversight. Its primary function is to mobilize national parliaments to critically examine their own activities, including assessing their effectiveness, as well as to actively engage in international initiatives aimed at promoting inclusivity and transparency within the context of universal democratic standards.
According to analytical reports by the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the UN, the main objectives and priorities promoted within the framework of the Day of Parliamentarism are:
First, strengthening the accountability and transparency of parliamentary activities, including the development of mechanisms for reporting to citizens;
Second, expanding the participation of women, youth, and vulnerable groups in parliamentary structures, both at the legislative and procedural levels;
Third, enhancing the effectiveness of parliamentary oversight, especially regarding the implementation of state programs and international obligations;
Fourth, improving legislative expertise, including through the involvement of the scientific and expert community;
Fifth, the digital transformation of parliamentary processes, encompassing both internal procedures (including electronic voting and document management) and forms of public interaction;
Sixth, institutionalizing the contribution of parliaments to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including monitoring the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The significance of the International Day of Parliamentarism is particularly heightened in the context of global transformations in democratic governance and the growing demand for inclusivity, transparency, and social justice.
The themes and mottos of the annual global campaigns organized as part of the International Day of Parliamentarism consistently emphasize these identified priorities and reflect parliamentarism's ability to adapt to the multifaceted challenges of our time - climatic, political, technological, and demographic. Examples from recent years clearly illustrate this focus:
 
  • 2021 - "I say 'yes' to youth in parliament!";
  • 2022 - "Civic participation at the heart of parliamentary democracy";
  • 2023 - "Parliaments for the planet" (environmental sustainability);
  • 2024 - "Parliamentary diplomacy: building bridges for peace and mutual understanding."
In 2025, the central theme of the International Day of Parliamentarism became achieving gender equality under the motto: "Step by step towards gender equality," which demonstrates the priority of equal representation on the global parliamentary agenda. The campaign, initiated by the Inter-Parliamentary Union in partnership with UN Women, under the slogan "Achieving Gender Equality: Action by Action," is timed to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. The campaign emphasizes the need for immediate, consistent, and systematic steps, especially in the context of slowing progress and even regression in the field of gender representation in some countries. As emphasized in the campaign materials, "it's time to move from words to deeds. Every step matters."
The International Day of Parliamentarism is gaining significance not only as a symbolic but also as a normative tool designed to stimulate systemic reforms within national parliaments, as well as to strengthen international parliamentary cooperation based on the principles of equality, participation, and sustainable development.
 
Modern Parliamentarism: The Gender Dimension
 
Despite the progress achieved, structural inequality in political representation remains one of the most pressing challenges for modern parliamentarianism. According to data from the Inter-Parliamentary Union, as of early 2025, women make up less than one-third of the total number of deputies in national parliaments worldwide. This disproportion affects not only equality of access to power, but also the substantive agenda of legislative bodies, including issues of preventing gender-based violence, protecting reproductive health, ensuring equal employment opportunities, and social justice.
As emphasized in the UN Women report, "without equal representation of women in government bodies, it is impossible to ensure a fair and sustainable democracy." Gender equality, in this context, is viewed not only as a component of social justice but also as a structural foundation for inclusive, sustainable, and legitimate parliamentary institutions.
This issue gained particular significance during the 150th anniversary Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union held in Tashkent, which officially launched the parliamentary campaign "Achieving Gender Equality: Action by Action." The program is based on three strategic priorities:
  • ensuring equal participation in decision-making at all levels of the parliamentary structure;
  • institutional transformation of parliaments into gender-sensitive bodies with equal conditions and support mechanisms;
  • systematic combating of gender-based violence and discrimination, including forms of political pressure and violence in the public sphere.
In this context, the words of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, spoken at the Tashkent session of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, are relevant: "Firmly securing women's rights is one of the key conditions for societal development. Analysis shows that if equal participation of women and men is ensured in all sectors of the economy, the global gross domestic product could increase by 26 percent."
This position received high praise from the international community. As the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Tulia Ackson, emphasized: "We are witnessing an increase in the number of women in parliament, as well as active participation of youth in parliamentary work. We are proud that the speech of your country's President formed the basis of the Tashkent Declaration. In it, issues such as the Sustainable Development Goals, social justice, the role of women and youth in society, and gender equality have taken a special place."
For over four decades, the Inter-Parliamentary Union has been implementing comprehensive measures to expand women's rights and opportunities in politics. A central mechanism in this work has been the Forum of Women Parliamentarians, which played an important role in institutionalizing equal participation. Key achievements include the introduction of mandatory gender composition for parliamentary delegations, the inclusion of men in promoting equality as allies, and the application of sanction mechanisms, including restrictions for delegations that do not include women.
According to Martin Chungong, Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union: "Modern parliaments must develop significantly to meet the demands of today's world." He notes that thanks to a consistent policy of inclusivity, women's participation in the activities of the Inter-Parliamentary Union has increased from 11-12% to almost 38%.
In its activities, the Inter-Parliamentary Union also actively relies on the provisions of UN Security Council resolutions No. 1325 (2000) and No. 2250 (2015), which emphasize the importance of including women and youth in peace, security, and recovery processes. Gender-sensitive parliamentarism is viewed as a key to strengthening public trust, preventing violence, and restoring the social fabric in post-crisis societies.
Promoting gender equality within the parliamentary system serves as an integral element of democratic transformation and institutional stability. Increasing women's representation strengthens the legitimacy of power, promotes broader consideration of the interests of various social groups, and ensures a qualitatively more balanced legislative agenda.
 
International Day of Parliamentarism: A Catalyst for Sustainable Development and Global Dialogue
 
The International Day of Parliamentarism serves as a universal platform for summarizing achievements, parliamentary reporting, deepening international dialogue, and advancing global agenda priorities. This day symbolizes the recognition of parliaments' central role in democratic governance and sustainable development.
The Inter-Parliamentary Union, uniting 181 national parliaments and 15 parliamentary associations, actively uses this date as a tool for consolidating efforts in response to contemporary challenges. In the context of intensifying transformational processes, growing global instability, and declining trust in state institutions, parliaments are becoming key actors in ensuring institutional stability, inclusiveness, and accountability.
Every June 30th, the Inter-Parliamentary Union initiates a wide range of activities, including the publication of analytical reports on the state of democracy and parliamentarism, the collection and synthesis of best practices developed through inter-parliamentary cooperation, and discussions on pressing challenges - from climate threats and digital inequality to limited political participation and the crisis of trust.
Particular attention is paid to the inclusiveness of parliamentary systems. The Inter-Parliamentary Union regularly monitors the representation of women, youth, and marginalized groups in legislative bodies, emphasizing the importance of their participation as an indicator of democratic maturity. In this context, promoting legislative initiatives and institutional reforms aimed at ensuring equal access to decision-making, transparency, and accountability is becoming a priority.
The environmental agenda plays a significant role: parliaments are increasingly involved in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals and international climate commitments, including the Paris Agreement. Legislative support for climate strategies is seen as a necessary condition for a fair and inclusive green transition.
The International Day of Parliamentarism also serves as a platform for developing parliamentary diplomacy. In the context of conflicts, geopolitical turbulence, and democratic transitions, the Inter-Parliamentary Union acts as a mediator and coordinator, facilitating dialogue, exchange of experience, and strengthening trust between parliaments of various regions. This contributes not only to the advancement of democracy but also to the reinforcement of global stability.
In this context, the Inter-Parliamentary Union performs not only a coordinating function, but also normative-analytical, expert, and methodological roles, shaping a comprehensive strategy for parliamentary development. The International Day of Parliamentarism is becoming an effective mechanism for strengthening the role of parliaments in the global governance architecture, as well as an impetus for reassessing their responsibility in promoting democratic values and fulfilling international commitments.
 
International Day of Parliamentarism: A Platform for Mobilizing National Initiatives
 
The International Day of Parliamentarism is increasingly being utilized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union as a strategic platform for promoting parliamentary development priorities and consolidating the efforts of national legislative bodies to achieve global goals.
Thanks to the coordinating role of the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the active support of its partners, parliaments of more than 100 countries annually organize events dedicated to June 30. These initiatives contribute to transforming the date into a sustainable element of political and institutional culture.
In several countries, the International Day of Parliamentarism is becoming a starting point for a wide range of programs aimed at strengthening the connection between parliaments and civil society. These include public hearings and open parliamentary sessions organized to engage the population in discussing current agendas; expert round tables and seminars focused on the challenges of modern parliamentarism; and educational events for youth, including parliamentary simulations, excursions, lectures, and interactive platforms.
Special attention is paid to environmental and digital components. In recent years, initiatives to plant trees and other actions within the framework of parliamentary climate responsibility have become increasingly widespread. Simultaneously, the practice of so-called "parliamentary hackathons" - interactive sessions involving IT communities, students, and digital technology specialists - is developing. These events contribute to the introduction of technological innovations in legislative activities, the expansion of feedback channels, and the digital transformation of parliaments.
Innovative formats are developing particularly dynamically in Asian, African, and Latin American countries. Parliamentary hackathons are typically implemented in partnership with youth parliaments, universities, and technology clusters. This contributes not only to expanding citizen participation but also to institutionalizing digital approaches in lawmaking and parliamentary monitoring processes.
Thus, the International Day of Parliamentarism goes beyond being a symbolic date, becoming an effective tool for institutional renewal. It helps strengthen trust in representative bodies, increase political inclusiveness, and introduce innovative governance approaches. In the long term, such practices form sustainable models of democratic interaction based on the principles of participation, transparency, and accountability.
 
Parliamentary transformation as a vector of sustainability
 
In the context of increasing political polarization, digital transformation, and global challenges - from climate-related to socio-economic ones - the significance of parliaments as democratic institutions continues to grow. In this context, the International Day of Parliamentarism gains potential not only as a symbolic but also as a strategic platform for parliamentary renewal and international cooperation.
To enhance this day's role on the global agenda and integrate it into national practices, it seems appropriate to develop the following areas:
Firstly, the institutionalization of the International Day of Parliamentarism at the national level. This includes its official incorporation into political events calendars, the development of parliamentary plans for its implementation, regular public reporting on parliamentary activities, and the allocation of targeted budget funds for relevant events. This practice contributes to transforming the date into an integral part of parliamentary culture and a mechanism of democratic accountability.
Secondly, the development of citizen participation in parliamentary processes. This can be implemented through advisory councils under parliaments, digital feedback platforms, youth parliamentary simulations, educational campaigns, and other forms of public dialogue. Activating citizens' participation in shaping the legislative agenda helps increase the legitimacy of decisions made and strengthen trust in parliamentary institutions.
Thirdly, promoting regional and global inter-parliamentary initiatives. Of particular importance are holding joint assemblies, creating thematic working groups, exchanging best legislative practices, and coordinating supranational standards of parliamentary activity. This allows for the development of coordinated approaches to addressing transnational challenges and strengthens the role of parliaments in the global governance architecture.
Fourthly, the development of the analytical and methodological foundation of parliamentary activity. It is important to promote the development of unified indicators for assessing the effectiveness, transparency, inclusivity, and accountability of parliaments. Conducting comparative studies, participating in monitoring missions, and systematizing best practices enable scientifically grounded support for parliamentary modernization processes.
Finally, special attention should be paid to the issues of independence and security of parliamentarians as an integral condition for the implementation of parliamentary oversight and legislative activity. Strengthening legal, institutional, and procedural guarantees aimed at protecting deputies from political pressure, threats, and violence should be seen as a crucial element in ensuring the rule of law, political pluralism, and the stability of democratic institutions.
Thus, a comprehensive reassessment of the role and functions of parliaments in the context of global transformation requires a systematic approach that combines institutional strengthening, digital renewal, inter-parliamentary solidarity, and guarantees of democratic independence.
 
The Parliamentary Future: From Symbol to Action
 
The International Day of Parliamentarism is not merely a commemorative date, but a significant occasion for rethinking the role of parliaments in the architecture of modern democratic society. This event acts as a catalyst for promoting the principles of inclusivity, transparency, and accountability, which strengthens citizens' trust in parliaments and enhances their ability to adapt to a rapidly changing world.
As the Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Martin Chungong, emphasizes, the Union's task is to "positively influence at least one person a day," and the path to this is "unwavering commitment to dialogue, inclusion, and responsibility."
In the face of global challenges - from digital inequality to political fragmentation - parliaments remain key institutions capable of ensuring sustainable, legitimate, and just development. Their ability to respond to the challenges of the 21st century is determined not only by legal mandates but also by their deep connection with society, openness to reforms, and readiness for self-assessment.
In 2025, the key focuses of the Day of Parliamentarism are particularly relevant. Despite international efforts and progress, gender equality in politics remains an unattainable goal for most countries. The "Step by Step to Achieve Gender Equality" campaign emphasizes: this is not an abstract formula, but a practical strategy that requires consistent legislative, institutional, and cultural changes.
Only by ensuring equal participation of all citizens - regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, or social status - can parliaments truly become democratic and viable institutions. Their ability to reflect the multifaceted nature of society, respond to crises, and develop sustainable solutions will become the main criterion for successful parliamentarism in the 21st century.
 
Academician, Prof. A. Saidov,
Vice-President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (2020-2023),
Member of the Legislative Chamber
of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan and the OTS: New Horizons for Investment Cooperation and Priority Projects
Uzbekistan and the OTS: New Horizons for Investment Cooperation and Priority Projects

Uzbekistan has historically been a proactive driver in strengthening ties among Turkic-speaking nations. Following a period of limited engagement, a pivotal turning point occurred in 2018 when the President of the Republic attended the 6th Summit of the Organization as a Guest of Honor. In 2019, the country ratified the Nakhchivan Agreement, officially becoming a full member of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). Since joining, Uzbekistan has proposed 116 specific initiatives, more than half of which have already been successfully implemented. The economic impact of this strategic course is evidenced by the data: at the end of 2025, trade turnover with OTS member states increased by 9.6%, reaching $10.8 billion.

Investment cooperation also shows a steady upward trend, with 4,352 enterprises operating with capital from member states as of early 2026. The Republic of Türkiye remains a key strategic partner, with bilateral relations officially elevated to the level of a Strategic Partnership in 2017. Türkiye leads all OTS countries in the number of enterprises established in Uzbekistan, reaching 2,137 units. Investment collaboration in 2025 was characterized by the utilization of funds totaling $3.2 billion, while trade turnover during the same period amounted to $3.024 billion. Transport connectivity is exceptionally robust, with 97 scheduled weekly flights operating between the cities of both nations across eight different routes, including Istanbul and Ankara.

Kazakhstan stands as Uzbekistan's largest trading partner within the Organization, with trade turnover growing by 11.4% in 2025 to nearly $5 billion. There are 1,212 enterprises with Kazakh capital successfully operating in the republic. The transport sector demonstrates immense scale, with freight volume exceeding 22.3 million tons in 2025, the majority of which—19.6 million tons—was transported via rail networks.

The dynamics of economic relations with Kyrgyzstan are marked by the highest growth rates in trade turnover, which surged by 37.1% in 2025 to reach $1.199 billion. The parties have solidified a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, facilitating an increase in joint ventures to 346 units. The transport sector recorded a significant rise, with total freight volume growing by 22.4% in 2025 to nearly 5.4 million tons. Export shipments across all modes of transport more than doubled, indicating deep integration of production chains.

In 2024, a fundamental Treaty on Allied Relations was signed with Azerbaijan, opening a new chapter in bilateral cooperation. Trade turnover between the countries grew by 14.6% in 2025, totaling $307.3 million. In the investment sphere, 367 enterprises with Azerbaijani capital are currently active. The logistics partnership is also strengthening, as total freight volume increased by 28.3% in 2025, supported by 14 weekly flights between the capitals.

Turkmenistan, which participates in the Organization as an observer, remains a vital partner, with trade turnover reaching $1.203 billion in 2025. The launch of the Shavat-Dashoguz joint border trade zone was a practical step toward streamlining commodity exchange. As of early 2026, 270 enterprises with Turkmen capital were functioning in Uzbekistan. In the transport sector, total cargo volume for 2025 amounted to approximately 1.785 million tons, reflecting a positive growth trend of 22.5%.

Hungary also holds observer status and is actively developing high-tech cooperation with Uzbekistan. In 2025, mutual trade grew by 41.7%, reaching $117.4 million. Although there are 20 enterprises with Hungarian capital in the republic, their projects are notable for their significant scale. These include the establishment of poultry clusters in the Syrdarya region valued at $165 million and a $59 million project for the construction of water treatment facilities in "New Tashkent."

The successful implementation of initiatives and steady growth in economic indicators confirm that Uzbekistan has found the OTS to be an effective instrument for advancing its national interests. Further deepening industrial cooperation and developing the region's transit potential create a solid foundation for transforming this space into a significant global manufacturing and trade hub. The strategic course toward closer integration with the Turkic world opens new prospects for attracting innovation and large-scale investment into key sectors of the national economy. Continuing this policy will not only strengthen the republic's international standing but also ensure long-term socio-economic prosperity for all member states of the Organization.

The Second Asian Women’s Forum to be held in Bukhara on May 13–15
The Second Asian Women’s Forum to be held in Bukhara on May 13–15

A meeting of the Organizing Committee for the Second Asian Women’s Forum was held at the Senate of the Oliy Majlis.

The meeting was chaired by the Chairperson of the Senate, Tanzila Narbaeva.

The meeting was attended by members of the Organizing Committee, senators, heads of relevant ministries and agencies, as well as representatives of non-governmental non-profit organizations.

It should be noted that the Head of state, during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly held on September 23–29, 2025, proposed transforming the Asian Women’s Forum into a permanent platform.

To this end, it was decided to hold the forum jointly with UN Women and the United Nations Population Fund on May 13–15 this year in the city of Bukhara.

The forum will address issues related to empowering women in the region in areas such as politics, economy, healthcare, education, social protection, climate, environment, and governance. It is expected to enhance both global and regional cooperation, with active exchange of experience.

The event will also serve as a platform to present to international participants the reforms implemented in Uzbekistan under the leadership of the Head of State, including measures to support women, socio-economic opportunities, and conditions created in employment, entrepreneurship, education, and social protection, as well as achievements in community development and tourism potential.

Particular attention will be given to the implementation of key international frameworks, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, UN Security Council Resolution 1325, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

During the meeting, participants discussed organizational aspects related to the forum, including its agenda, content, and arrangements for bilateral meetings with foreign delegations.

Following the meeting, relevant ministries and agencies were assigned specific tasks to ensure the forum is held at a high level.

 

Dunyo IA,

Tashkent

Congratulations to the people of Uzbekistan on Kurban Hayit holiday
Congratulations to the people of Uzbekistan on Kurban Hayit holiday

Dear compatriots!

Sincerely, from the bottom of my heart, I congratulate you, all our people on the holiday of Kurban Hayit, which has come in our country, which is being transformed and illuminated with the light of peace, kindness and harmony every day.

In these blessed moments we all deeply feel the spirit and joy of the great holiday and give immense gratitude to the Almighty for the fact that we meet such bright days together with our people.

Today, Kurban Hayit, firmly established in people's lives as a symbol of mercy, generosity and humanism, is gaining more and more significance, consonant with the content of large-scale reforms in the New Uzbekistan, in which respect for human honor and dignity comes to the fore in all spheres.

It should be especially noted that our sacred religion and this bright holiday, which embodies its humanistic essence, serves as a source of strength and inspiration for us in all good deeds aimed at strengthening the atmosphere of peace and tranquility, friendship and cohesion in mahallas and families, caring for the older generation, youth and women, low-income families, and making sure that no one is left behind.

Dear friends!

In these bright days, when our hearts are filled with joy, we talk about the great work carried out in recent years to revive the original spiritual values, to improve the sacred places, to create favorable conditions for the Muslims of the country to freely perform religious rites, including hajj and umrah.

In a short period of time, international scientific centers of Imam Bukhari, Imam Termezi and Imam Maturidi have been organized. The memorial complexes of Abu Iso Termezi, Abu Muin Nasafi, Sulton Uwais Karani and Suzuk Ota have been radically transformed. Work on the construction and equipping of the Imam Bukhari memorial complex and the Centre for Islamic Civilization is continuing apace. Majestic mosques are being built in many towns and villages.

Over the past seven years, more than 60 thousand Muslims of the country have made the Hajj. These days 15 thousand more of our compatriots are making pilgrimage to two sacred cities - Mecca and Medina, having realized their most cherished dream.

In such blessed moments, when good thoughts come true, we wish them with all our heart to fully perform the rites of Hajj and safely return to their homeland.

On the eve of the celebration of Hayyit, during our telephone conversation with the Chairman of the Muslims' Board, the Honorable Mufti Sheikh Nuriddin Kholiknazar, who is staying in the holy Mecca, he emphasized the created conditions necessary for our compatriots to perform the rites of Hajj. We hope that, having returned home, our pilgrims will become an example in further strengthening the atmosphere of kindness and mutual assistance in the society, in the struggle of enlightenment against ignorance, strengthening the education of youth and establishing harmony in families.

Dear compatriots!

Today we sincerely congratulate our compatriots abroad on this holiday, wish them health, happiness and success.

We convey warm congratulations to believing Muslims in the states of near and far abroad and sincere wishes of peace and progress to their peoples and countries.

May the ongoing wars and conflicts in different regions cease! May peace reign on the Earth forever!

Dear friends!

Today, together with our multinational people, we are building a new Uzbekistan. The new Uzbekistan is a new life, a new development, a happy future.

If we unite more firmly and continue the initiated reforms with even greater determination, we will undoubtedly achieve this great goal.

We will surely raise our children to be a generation of true patriots, highly educated, possessing modern knowledge and professions.

I wish you happiness and success on this path.

May the Almighty protect our nation!

I once again congratulate you on the holy holiday of Kurban Hayit, wish you health, peace and prosperity to your families.



Shavkat Mirziyoyev,

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Meeting of the National council on combating corruption held
Meeting of the National council on combating corruption held

On March 5 President of the Republic of Uzbekistan attended a meeting of the National council on combating corruption. The meeting analysed the work carried out on creating corruption-free environment and defined further goals.

In his speech, the Head of State mentioned that corruption is a serious challenge in the course of reforms.

In this connection in the past years laws were adopted and a new system on combating this vice was created. Responsible committees were formed in the parliamentary chambers, a National council and Anti-Corruption Agency were established.

Particular attention is paid to creating conditions where the public can openly raise and discuss the problem of corruption. The role and influence of the media in this sphere are raising.

Primarily, measures are taken to combat the causes of corruption. For example, the abandonment of allocation of land plots by decisions of khokims and transition to the auction system made the allocation process more open. There have also been positive changes in this area since the introduction of the “Shaffof Kurilish” program.

The adoption of the law on public procurement, digitalization of the system of elections and tenders, as well as the establishment of healthy competition allowed saving 14 trillion soums of budget funds last year.

Today, all banks provide household loans up to 100 million soums online in 5 minutes without human involvement. As a result, thousands of bankers, who used to process such applications, now work directly in mahallas, offering projects and credit programs, thus contributing to the growth of the customer base.

In the pre-school and school education system, more than 10 types of services have been fully converted to electronic format, reducing the number of applications by 2.5 times.

The higher education system was also digitalized: a system for taking tests and selecting universities based on their results was introduced, and the automated receipt of 35 types of documents reduced the number of requests by 2.2 times.

Due to the use of body cameras by traffic safety inspectors, the sale of license plates through auctions, and the elimination of paper protocols, corruption factors have been significantly reduced.

Services to the population and entrepreneurs are organized on the basis of the principle of “the state serving the people”: the requirements to provide 120 types of documents, more than 160 licenses and permits have been abolished. This led to the emergence of almost 200 thousand new entrepreneurs in the market, and the number of enterprises with foreign participation increased almost 5 times, reaching 23 thousand.

The number of electronic public services increased 15 times, reaching 721, and the number of their users exceeded 11 million.

Most importantly, these measures have strengthened the faith of the population, entrepreneurs, foreign partners, international organizations and investors in the ongoing reforms. Over the past seven years, over $120 billion in investments have been attracted, and the country's economy has doubled, reaching $115 billion last year.

The President emphasized that the fight against corruption is an ongoing process and outlined the current issues and future tasks in this sphere.

It was noted that law enforcement agencies are mainly focused on detecting and punishing corrupt acts, while preventive measures aimed at eradicating corruption factors are neglected.

In this regard, it was decided to change the working methodology of the Anti-Corruption Agency. As an experiment, compliance control in five agencies - the Ministries of Health, Construction, Water Resources, Joint Stock Companies “Uzbekneftegaz” and “Uzsuvtaminot” will be transferred to the Agency.

In addition, an in-depth study of factors of domestic and systemic corruption will be conducted at the district level, which will be used to develop specific measures and submitted to the National Council.

It was noted that 75 percent of corruption crimes are committed in the form of domestic corruption in districts and mahallas, so the composition of the regional councils on combating corruption will be completely renewed. They will be headed by chairmen of regional councils of people's deputies.

The regional councils will propose to the National Council amendments to legislation aimed at eradicating corruption factors and ensuring inevitability of punishment.

Eight years ago, a system of sectors for the integrated development of territories was introduced. They contributed to solving socio-economic problems. In recent years, the potential of the regions has increased significantly.

In this regard, it was decided that prosecutors, heads of internal affairs and tax authorities would no longer be involved in sector activities. Additional tasks have been set to prevent and combat crime.

Special attention is paid to preventing corruption in public procurement. An Expert Commission will be established for this purpose. Based on best practices, an electronic platform will be developed to monitor that the prices of goods and services purchased through public procurement do not exceed the market average by more than 20 percent. Accountability measures and fines will be introduced for violation of this requirement.

Requirements for the procurement of fixed assets at the expense of the budget and extra-budgetary funds will also be tightened. Domestic transportation and furniture will be given priority in procurement by government agencies, and a requirement for evaluation against high anti-corruption standards will be introduced for major projects.

The fight against corruption begins with the selection of professional and dedicated employees for the civil service. In this regard, instructions have been given to improve procedures for hiring and evaluating candidates.

The need to adopt a law on the declaration of income of civil servants was noted, and a draft of this law will be submitted for public discussion.

The importance of instilling the ideas of honesty in educational institutions was emphasized in order to educate a new generation intolerant of corruption, as well as to support the initiatives of young people.

Addressing the public, the President said that the fight against corruption is a national task and a matter of conscience for every patriot of the country.

- If we all join forces, we will definitely achieve significant positive results. That is why mahalla activists, the older generation, intellectuals, writers and poets, art and culture workers, businessmen, well-known figures, leaders, deputies and senators - the entire public should become united and consider corruption as a “plague on the body of society”.

During the meeting, a dialogue was held with members of parliament, government representatives and the public.

For the first time, the event held in such a format demonstrated a strong political will to fight corruption.

The Head of State presented 55 concrete initiatives, which will include the development of 5 laws, 12 decrees and resolutions, as well as strengthening the role of Parliament, National and Regional Councils and civil society institutions in the fight against corruption.

The legal basis for the fight against corruption will be strengthened: the introduction of a new system of income declaration and a procedure for preventing illicit enrichment will reduce corruption factors. The activities of the Anti-Corruption Agency and internal control structures in organizations will be strengthened.

The responsibility of heads of ministries and agencies in preventing domestic corruption will be increased. A system of public evaluation of the quality of public services will be established, and strict measures will be taken against managers with the worst performance.

The independence of control inspections will be strengthened, and corruption prevention mechanisms will be introduced in major investment projects and auctions.

By streamlining the public procurement system and restricting direct procurement, budget savings will be achieved, and diversion of public funds will be curbed.

The freed resources will be mobilized to fight crime, which will lead to greater stability in society and increase the confidence of citizens. Strengthened prosecutorial oversight of illegal inspections will contribute to improving the business and investment climate in the regions.

The achieved results will improve the position of our country in international ratings, and by 2027 conditions will be created for Uzbekistan's candidacy for the UNCAC conference.

Most importantly, the legal consciousness of the population, especially young people, will be raised, and the society will form ownership of the fight against corruption.

Reported on the progress of the development of neighborhood and city master plans
Reported on the progress of the development of neighborhood and city master plans

The head of our state familiarized himself with the presentation on the development of master plans of districts and cities.

This task was set at the video conference call dedicated to priority tasks in the economy, which took place on January 16 this year. The responsible persons presented information on the work done, as well as the expected results from the implementation of master plans.

During this time master plans were developed for 14 districts and cities. They provide for the construction of 759 apartment buildings, 22 shopping centers and more than 800 service facilities.

In addition, 136 more master plans are planned based on driver areas in 112 neighborhoods.

For example, 38 high-growth neighborhoods need to build sufficient housing, public spaces and recreational parks.

In 20 districts with high tourism potential, there is an opportunity to increase the flow of tourists by 2.5 times by increasing the number of hotels and developing ecological, hunting, medical, sports and extreme tourism.

More than 400 motels, campgrounds, canteens, stores and car services can be created in 68 districts, through which main roads pass.

In general, thanks to the projects based on master plans, 40 thousand jobs are expected to be created, as well as annual budget revenues of 350 billion soums.

The head of our state emphasized the need to accelerate the creation of convenient infrastructure, shopping and entertainment places, as well as high-income jobs for the population.

The task has been set to create a vertical system of development and monitoring of master plans.

The President of Uzbekistan noted the priorities of expanding partnership with the World Bank
The President of Uzbekistan noted the priorities of expanding partnership with the World Bank

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with World Bank Vice President for Europe and Central Asia Antonella Bassani on September 30.

The sides considered topical issues of further expansion of strategic cooperation with the World Bank Group and support of this leading international financial institution to the ongoing reform program in New Uzbekistan.

At the beginning of the meeting, Vice President Antonella Bassani conveyed to the head of our state sincere greetings and best wishes of World Bank President Ajay Bangui.

During the conversation, the current high level and fruitful nature of bilateral cooperation were noted with deep satisfaction.

In recent years, our country has become one of the largest partners of the Bank - the portfolio of projects has increased several times and now exceeds 12 billion dollars.

The World Bank supports the implementation of important reforms aimed at ensuring the sustainability of economic and social sectors. Since July this year, the Bank's regional office has been operating in Tashkent.

Such areas as poverty reduction, transformation of state-owned enterprises and banks, decarbonization, support for WTO accession and others have been identified as priorities for further expansion of the partnership.

Special attention was paid to the programs of urbanization and integrated development of regions, modernization of energy and irrigation infrastructure, support to the private sector.

There was also an exchange of views on the promotion of regional projects.

Central Asia’s Shared Experience of Compromise Is Increasingly in Demand Globally as a Practical Model for Preventive Diplomacy
Central Asia’s Shared Experience of Compromise Is Increasingly in Demand Globally as a Practical Model for Preventive Diplomacy

The UN General Assembly adopted by consensus, without a vote, the resolution Peaceful Settlement of Border Disputes, introduced by Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan and co-sponsored by 40 states. Akramjon Nematov, First Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan, commented to IA Dunyo on the significance of the adopted document in the context of changing perceptions of our region on the international stage.

- This is truly a historic event of fundamental importance both for Central Asia and for the entire contemporary international practice. The fact that the resolution was adopted unanimously, without a formal vote, testifies to the unconditional support for and high level of trust in our region on the part of the international community. I would especially emphasize that dozens of countries acted as co-authors of the document, but the key initiators, acting in solidarity and on equal terms, were Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

The document is devoted to a topic that today remains one of the most difficult and painful on the global agenda – the peaceful delimitation and formalization of state borders. At a time when geopolitical fractures are deepening across the planet, trust is declining, and there is a dangerous rollback toward forceful methods of resolving disputes, the states of Central Asia have demonstrated high political maturity and responsibility.

In practice, we have proved to the entire world that direct, honest, and respectful dialogue is the only effective way to untangle the most complex knots of contradictions that remained unresolved since the collapse of the USSR. Central Asia is finally moving away from its former stereotypical image as a “zone of latent risks and border conflicts.” Today, our region is acting as a mature and independent subject of international politics, capable of ensuring stability in our common home through its own efforts and of shaping exemplary peaceful practices that are in demand on a global scale.

— Bringing this initiative to the UN level is a serious step. What strategic and legal consequences does it entail for the initiating states?

— Bringing the Central Asian case to the universal UN platform is important because it consolidates the results we have achieved and gives the processes of regional rapprochement a stable and irreversible character.

By registering these steps within the international legal framework, the states of the region publicly confirm their mutual commitments to follow the course of good-neighborliness. This places a high level of responsibility on all parties before the international community. Thus, strong political and legal guarantees of stability are being created, and the risks of any future revision of the agreements are being radically reduced.

This breakthrough became possible thanks to the firm political will and foresight of the leaders of all Central Asian states, who were able to place the long-term interests of stability and prosperity of our peoples above current disagreements. If we analyze the origins of this process, the most important role here was played by the open and pragmatic foreign policy course of Uzbekistan proclaimed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in 2017. This strategy was initially aimed at turning Central Asia into a space of trust.

What is fundamental is that this approach was not imposed from above as someone’s doctrine, but found a sincere and active response among our neighbors. The current success is precisely the result of joint work and inclusive regional synergy. The initiatives of Tashkent were supported, substantively supplemented, and jointly implemented together with Bishkek and Dushanbe. The signing by the leaders of the three countries of the agreement on the junction point of state borders and the opening of the “Stele of Friendship” became a logical outcome of this large-scale joint work, where the contribution of each side is equally valuable

- Akramjon Ilkhamovich, the political will of the leaders has given a powerful impulse, but peace must also be durable in practice. What economic prospects are opening up for the region, and how is the very model of ensuring security at the borders changing?

- Today we are witnessing a conceptual shift in approaches to regional security: the previous paradigm of rigid restrictions, fences, and barriers in border areas is being replaced by a modern security model based on joint economic development and the formation of deep interdependence. Security in the region is now measured not by the height of dividing barriers, but by the depth and scale of joint projects.

New round-the-clock border checkpoints are opening one after another, which has greatly simplified the movement of people and caused a colossal tourism boom. An illustrative fact: neighboring states now account for more than 60% of all tourists visiting Uzbekistan, which amounts to about 7 million people annually.

The economic framework of stability lies in the fact that we are moving toward major joint infrastructure projects. Trade and industrial zones and logistics centers are being built in border areas, a vivid example of which is the International Trade and Economic Park “Dostuk”. Moreover, we are jointly building the strategic railway China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan and launching projects for the construction of major hydroelectric power plants such as Kambarata HPP-1 and Yavan HPP. What until recently seemed like a distant, almost unattainable dream is today being realized through our common efforts.

All this opens colossal prospects. Central Asia is turning into a single, integral, and stable macro-region. Today our population amounts to about 85 million people. Such a demographic scale has never existed in our history before. But the most important thing is the absolute, practically one hundred percent literacy of this population. The presence of such an impressive body of educated, qualified intellectual capital makes the region a powerful asset for attracting high technologies, major investments, and transforming Central Asia into a key transit and industrial hub for the whole of Eurasia.

- For this complex process to develop progressively, agreements at the highest level must be supported by society. What role do institutions of people’s diplomacy and dialogue platforms on the ground play here?

- You are absolutely right: interstate agreements will be viable only when they possess a developed social base and take root at the level of civil society. Look at how actively dialogue through people’s diplomacy is developing today: regular forums of civil society and women leaders of our countries are being held, large-scale meetings of the creative and scientific intelligentsia are taking place, and living human ties are being restored.

The expert community plays an enormous role in this architecture. It is precisely for this purpose that new inclusive dialogue platforms are being created, and one of the key among them is the Fergana Peace Forum, which we are actively developing in close partnership with our neighbors. We are convinced that the Fergana Forum should become a permanent platform for cooperation in the Fergana Valley. This is a space where analysts, representatives of government bodies, entrepreneurs, and local communities of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan conduct direct and transparent dialogue. Coordinated approaches to complex cross-border challenges are developed here — issues of joint water use, ecology, climate change, and the development of border territories. This makes it possible to transfer potential points of friction into the sphere of practical interaction.

And, of course, systematic work with youth occupies a special, strategic place, because it is the new generation that will have to preserve and develop the conflict-free space that is being laid today. Continuing the logic of the Fergana Peace Forum, already in June, within the framework of the “Youth Month,” we plan to hold a large-scale International Youth Seminar on Peacebuilding in Fergana under the auspices of the UN and the OSCE.

Active youth from all over Central Asia will take part in this three-day event, but the main emphasis is on young people from the border regions of our three countries. Our task is to strengthen youth ties on the ground, teach them to find a common language, jointly implement projects, and deeply support the continuity of the culture of peaceful dialogue.

In conclusion, it can be said that by adopting this resolution, the world recognized that the joint experience of compromises in Central Asia is highly in demand at the global level as a viable matrix of preventive diplomacy that can and should be studied and scaled up. Through concrete action, our region has proved its ability to independently generate stability and bear joint responsibility for a common prosperous future.

IA Dunyo

Reforms in Uzbekistan are based on the principle “The stronger public control, the more humane, free and fair the state is”
Reforms in Uzbekistan are based on the principle “The stronger public control, the more humane, free and fair the state is”

The most important sign of civil society is manifested in the fact that citizens exercise complete control over the activities of state structures. According to article 36 of the new version of the Constitution of Uzbekistan, our citizens have the right to participate directly and through their representatives in the management of the affairs of society and the state. Such participation is carried out through self-government, referendums and the democratic formation of state bodies, as well as public control over the activities of state bodies. The procedure for exercising public control over the activities of state bodies is established by law.

In order to organize and regulate relations in the field of public control over the activities of state bodies and institutions, the law “On Public Control” was adopted on April 12, 2018. According to this law, public control is carried out in such forms as appeals and requests to state bodies, public discussions, public hearings, public monitoring, and the study is carried out by citizens' self-government bodies in such forms as hearing reports and information from officials of state bodies.

Consistent work is underway in our country to implement public control and improve the regulatory framework governing this area. By presidential decree dated May 4, 2018, the badge "For contribution to the development of civil society" was established; the decree of the President of Uzbekistan dated July 4, 2018 "On measures to organize the activities of public councils under state bodies" was of great importance for accelerating work in this area. This resolution establishes the procedure for organizing the main tasks, functions, powers and activities of the public council under state bodies, which basically provides that the public council is created by the decision of the head of the state body, carries out its work on a voluntary basis and it is assumed that it will conduct its work on a public basis, as well as be considered as a permanent advisory body whose decisions will be advisory in nature.

As Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted, “There is no more effective tool for achieving the supremacy of the Constitution and the law than public control.” Public control is an important institution of democracy and people's power; it serves to ensure the protection of the rights and legitimate interests of citizens by monitoring the activities of state bodies.

In recent years, special attention has been paid in our republic to ensuring the participation of citizens in the management of society and public affairs, the creation of effective mechanisms for public control over the activities of the executive branch, and further strengthening the functions of public control. In particular, at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, a public chamber was established in 2020 in order to further strengthen public control and establish close cooperation between the state and society. It was noted that the public chamber should regularly study the opinion of the population, set specific tasks for government agencies to find solutions. The importance of implementing such influential forms of control as "public hearings", "public monitoring", "public expertise", and "public initiative" was demonstrated.

According to the decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On measures to expand financing of projects formed on the basis of public opinion", adopted on October 25, 2022, an additional 335 billion soums were allocated for the implementation of 364 projects, each of which received more than 2 thousand votes in July-September 2022.

In recent years of modern development in our republic, the system of public administration has been improved, effective mechanisms of dialogue with the people have been introduced, and the effectiveness of the role and activities of the Mahalla Institute in the management of society has increased. Virtual and public reception rooms of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan were created in order to ensure human interests, knowledge and solution of problems and needs of people. These structures have become a mechanism for in-depth analysis of problems on the ground and a criterion for increasing the responsibility of state bodies and officials to society and evaluating their activities.

To date, such systems as "online reception" and "virtual visit" have been introduced, allowing for quick and economical identification of problems on the ground in order to optimize their expenses related to the maintenance of the public administration apparatus, eliminate corruption factors and establish effective public control over budget spending.

As an example, it is worth mentioning that in recent years a new system of dialogue with the people has been created – the activities of the presidential virtual and people's reception rooms. Of the 9,465,000 applications received by the virtual reception of the President, about 9,379,000 have been considered, the rest are also being resolved in accordance with the procedure established by law. The results of the public discussion can also be found on the "portal for discussions of draft regulatory legal acts" (regulation.gov.uz), which is clearly seen in the example. To date, 25384 draft regulatory legal acts have been posted on this portal for public discussion, of which 25183 have already been completed.

In recent years, the study of public opinion has become publicly available. The Open Budget portal was launched to exercise public control over targeted budget expenditures. Citizens can send messages about violations of budget legislation through the Portal, suggestions for improving the budget process, while receiving information such as the state budget, budget execution through this portal. In particular, an initiative budget has been launched through the Open Budget information portal, which is held 2 times a year. Thanks to this portal, citizens are focused on solving problems through joint voting. In the first season (February) 2024, 35,575 initiatives were supported, for which 3,390.5 billion soums were allocated.

Establishing the accountability of public authorities to parliament and local councils, as well as the introduction of the Electronic Government system, led to a further strengthening of public control. As a result, today in our country there is a single interactive portal of public services (my.gov.uz), an open data portal (data.egov.uz), a portal for discussing draft regulatory documents (regulation.gov.uz), and a complex of information systems “License" (license.gov.uz), information system for automating the activities of Single Window centers (birdarcha.uz).

Since 2023, in order to improve the system for identifying and solving social problems among the population in our republic, the practice of monthly hearing information from the heads of relevant government bodies and organizations in the mahalla council has been established, and new forms of public control have been introduced - “mahalla control” groups and “survey” institutions mahalla chairmen." Also, on behalf of the President, the “digital mahalla” system and the “people’s control” platform were improved.

The “My Opinion” web portal, which is under the jurisdiction of the Public Chamber, was created in order to expand the opportunities of citizens in our country to participate in the management of the affairs of society and the state, to ensure the openness of the activities of representative bodies of state power, to ensure the viability and effectiveness of the public administration system. Through this portal, a citizen can send proposals on legislation on important issues of state and public importance in the form of an electronic collective appeal. The My Opinion web portal, which is under the jurisdiction of the Public Chamber, was created in order to expand the opportunities of citizens in our country to participate in the management of the affairs of society and the state, to ensure the openness of the activities of representative bodies of state power, to ensure the viability and effectiveness of the public administration system. Through this portal, a citizen can send proposals on legislation on important issues of state and public importance in the form of an electronic collective appeal "Meningfikrim.uz "(My opinion). To date, more than 6670 collective appeals and about 30,000 comments have been received through the portal.

In recent years, political parties, which are considered to be one of the main actors of civil society in our country, have been given not only ample opportunities for free participation in elections, but also control over the executive branch. Political parties also have the right to exercise public control based on the interests of the public and their electorate. During election processes, local observers at polling stations consist of representatives of political parties and citizens' self-government bodies.

The role of the media in developing openness and transparency in our society, establishing public control over the activities of government bodies and their officials, studying and resolving legal appeals from citizens is also incomparable. In particular, the number of media registered in 2016–2023 increased by 41%, that is, in 2016 their number was 1614, and by 2023 it reached 2140. The number of mobile Internet users also exceeded 33 million.

As can be seen from the above, the main purpose of public control is to ensure respect for the rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of citizens, to ensure legality in the activities of state bodies and officials, and to protect the interests of society.

The Uzbekistan 2030 strategy, developed based on the results of public discussions in order to create a fair and modern state serving the people, identified such priority tasks as: creating the necessary conditions for public participation in the activities of local councils, broad involvement of civil society institutions and the gradual digitalization of their activities, establishing the practice of assessing the activities of heads of state bodies and their deputies based on public opinion, and intensified continuation of work to form an unparalleled attitude towards corruption in society.

As a result of public control, the activities of state bodies in the country are objectively studied, their shortcomings are identified, various violations of legislation are prevented, public participation in the implementation of laws and their preparation is ensured, broader conditions are created for the prompt solution of various problems in society and the will of the population, and special attention should be paid to the fact that public control implies not only control over the quality of the work performed, but also the use of opportunities, as well as participation in their development.

In conclusion, I would like to note that in our republic, constitutional status has been given a state public control. In the new Uzbekistan, the participation of citizens in the management of the affairs of society and the state, including the development and improvement of public control over the activities of state bodies, provides ample opportunities for the full-fledged formation and strengthening of civil society in our country.  If the public control in the country is strong, the state is more humane, free and fair.

 

N.S.Rasulova, candidate of historical sciences Associate professor of the University  of Public safety of the Republic of Uzbekistan


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