This year has proven to be a pivotal moment in Uzbekistan’s commitment to upholding international standards of freedom of expression and access to information. In a series of significant events organized by UNESCO in collaboration with the Government of Uzbekistan, the Supreme School of Judges, and the Law Enforcement Academy, both judicial and law enforcement professionals have been trained to enhance their understanding of these fundamental rights.
The recent initiatives are part of UNESCO's broader mission to promote media freedom and ensure the safety of journalists, two crucial elements in fostering open and just societies. As Uzbekistan seeks to align its legal framework with global standards, these training programs mark a decisive step forward in equipping the country's judiciary and law enforcement with the knowledge necessary to protect and promote freedom of speech and access to information.
Law Enforcement Takes the Stage
Earlier in May 2024, UNESCO and the Government of Uzbekistan organized two five-day seminars at the Law Enforcement Academy, focusing on similar topics of media safety and access to information. These seminars, also funded by SDC and UNESCO’s Multi-Donor Program on the Safety of Journalists, brought together staff from the academy and prosecutors. Participants were given insights into international legal frameworks, freedom of expression, access to open data, and ensuring the safety of journalists in their work.
The seminars were led by the former Attorney General of Quebec, Canada, and served as a platform for law enforcement professionals to engage with complex topics relevant to their roles. The goal was clear: to raise awareness and build capacity to protect the rights of journalists, a key component in safeguarding democracy and press freedom.
A Focus on Judges and Legal Actors
From August 12 to 14, 2024, UNESCO, in collaboration with the Supreme School of Judges, organized a three-day training for twenty-five participants, including senior judges and judicial staff from Uzbekistan. Funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and UNESCO’s Multi-Donor Program on the Safety of Journalists, this event was led by international legal expert Professor Dr. Joan Barata Mir. The training covered crucial topics, including the scope of freedom of expression, legitimate restrictions, media regulation, hate speech, and the evolving challenges of the digital age.
Khoji-Murod Isokov, Director of the Supreme School of Judges, highlighted the importance of these initiatives in his remarks: “Freedom of speech is not only a fundamental right but also a responsibility and obligation for every individual. In our country, freedom of speech and opinion is constitutionally guaranteed, a protection that was further reinforced in the new version of our Constitution adopted in last year’s national referendum. Specifically, Article 33 of the Constitution affirms that everyone has the right to freedom of thought, speech, and belief.”
UNESCO Representative in Uzbekistan, Sara Noshadi, emphasized the significance of these events: “These trainings are a crucial step in strengthening Uzbekistan's commitment to upholding freedom of expression and access to information. By equipping judges and law specialists with the necessary knowledge and tools, we contribute to a more just and open society.”
A Commitment to the Future
These initiatives are part of a broader three-year program titled “Empowering the Government and Citizens of Uzbekistan by Strengthening Access to Information, Accountability of Institutions, and Media Competence” (AIM). Funded by SDC, this program seeks to improve the legal and institutional frameworks related to media competence, freedom of expression, and access to information in Uzbekistan.
Through these collaborative efforts, UNESCO and its partners aim to ensure that the judiciary and law enforcement sectors are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving media landscape. These training programs are not just about building knowledge, but about fostering a culture that respects and protects the free exchange of ideas – an essential foundation for a thriving, democratic society.
UzA