Amid sweeping reforms and as legislative elections approach, Uzbekistan seeks to empower civil society while navigating challenges of digital transformation and public trust.
In the heart of Central Asia, Uzbekistan is embarking on a journey that could redefine its governance and civil society. Under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, a wave of ambitious reforms is transforming the country, signaling a break from its authoritarian past and a step toward a more open and inclusive future. These reforms, particularly those aimed at empowering civil society institutions, are not just a nod to democratic ideals—they are a critical test of Uzbekistan’s commitment to transparency, public participation, and modernization.
A New Constitutional Era for Civil Society
Uzbekistan’s recent history is marked by a top-down approach to governance, where civil society played a minimal role. However, this is rapidly changing. The new edition of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, which now includes a dedicated chapter on civil society institutions, symbolizes a profound shift. For the first time, these institutions are constitutionally recognized, embedding their role into the state’s legal framework. This constitutional recognition is part of a broader strategy outlined in the “Uzbekistan – 2030” agenda, which envisions a state apparatus that serves the people with greater efficiency and accountability.
At the heart of these reforms is the Concept for the Development of Civil Society in 2021-2025. This initiative marks a historic moment for Uzbekistan, as it is the first time the government has laid out a comprehensive plan to systematically support and develop civil society organizations (CSOs). Over the past seven years, the state has allocated a significant 718 billion sums to support CSOs—an amount that is 12 times more than what was allocated between 2008 and 2016. This financial commitment has enabled the implementation of over 1,600 projects through regional funds, addressing social issues and fostering a more engaged and active citizenry.
Targeted Support for Vulnerable Groups
One of the most notable aspects of Uzbekistan’s reforms is the state’s focus on protecting vulnerable groups, particularly persons with disabilities. The government has placed organizations such as the Society of the Disabled, the Society of the Deaf, and the Society of the Blind under its full guardianship. This ensures that these groups receive the protection and resources they need, a significant step toward building an inclusive society. Additionally, the creation of “houses of NGOs” across the country has provided more than 350 non-governmental organizations with free office space, significantly reducing their operational burdens and allowing them to focus on their core missions.
These reforms extend to the legal and bureaucratic frameworks governing CSOs. The fees for registering non-governmental, non-profit organizations have been halved, and the registration process itself has been streamlined, reducing the time required from one month to just 15 days. Moreover, the requirement for NGOs to obtain permission from justice authorities to hold events has been abolished, granting them greater freedom and autonomy. This deregulation is coupled with an easing of restrictions on receiving funds from external sources, leading to a fivefold increase in international grants, which have totaled more than $125 million over the past seven years.
Digital Transformation: Opportunities and Challenges
Uzbekistan’s push towards digital transformation is another critical element of its reform agenda. The launch of the e-ngo.uz portal is a significant milestone, providing a platform for civil society institutions to access government services electronically. However, this shift to digital platforms presents a new set of challenges. The digital divide remains a significant hurdle, particularly in rural areas where internet access and digital literacy are limited. For the government’s digital initiatives to succeed, it must ensure that all citizens and organizations can benefit from these advancements. This means investing in infrastructure, providing education, and ensuring that digital tools are accessible to everyone.
Moreover, the cultural shift required for these reforms to take root cannot be underestimated. For decades, civil society in Uzbekistan has operated in a constrained environment. While the new legal framework provides more freedom, it also demands a level of trust and engagement from both the state and the public. Building this trust will take time and will require continuous dialogue, transparency, and a willingness to adapt to the needs of society.
Building Trust Through Institutional Reforms
The creation of the Public Fund for the Support of Civil Society Institutions under the Parliament is a step in the right direction. This fund is designed to ensure that social projects are targeted and that bureaucracy is minimized. By placing the fund under the oversight of representatives from both the Senate and the Legislative Chamber, the government aims to increase the efficiency and transparency of resource allocation. However, the success of this initiative will depend on the fund’s ability to genuinely reflect the needs of civil society and to operate without undue interference.
Another critical aspect of the reforms is the push for social partnership between government agencies and NGOs. The government has mandated that state bodies hold annual competitions for social orders and engage in open dialogues with civil society representatives. This initiative is intended to foster collaboration and ensure that NGOs can contribute effectively to socio-economic development programs. Yet, for this partnership to be fruitful, it will require not just institutional changes, but also a shift in mindset among government officials and civil society leaders alike.
The Road Ahead: Testing Uzbekistan’s Commitment
As Uzbekistan continues to navigate this complex transformation, the international community is watching closely. The reforms, particularly those related to civil society, have the potential to set a new standard in the region for governance and public participation. However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, and the true test of these reforms will be their implementation and sustainability over the long term.
Uzbekistan under President Mirziyoyev is making significant strides toward building a more open and inclusive society. The reforms are comprehensive and ambitious, reflecting a genuine desire to break from the past and embrace a future where civil society plays a central role in governance. But as with any reform process, the success of these initiatives will depend on the continued commitment of all stakeholders, the adaptability of the legal and institutional frameworks, and the ability to overcome the challenges that inevitably arise in the pursuit of change.
As the world watches, Uzbekistan stands at a crossroads. The path it chooses will not only define its future but could also serve as a model for other nations in the region seeking to balance tradition with the demands of a modern, democratic society.