These days, the international community’s attention is focused on Uzbekistan, situated in the heart of Central Asia. From April 5 to 9, Tashkent will host a prestigious international event – the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

This event, which has garnered global attention, holds significant importance not only for the country and the region but also for the international parliamentary community as a whole. The assembly is expected to gather nearly 2,000 delegates from 181 countries, 15 observer states, and more than 25 international and inter-parliamentary organizations.

During the assembly, high-level parliamentary delegations from around the world will discuss pressing and vital issues, including social protection of the population, poverty reduction, ensuring the rule of law, protection of human rights, achieving gender equality, advancing science and technology, and supporting youth.

It is crucial to emphasize that in today’s complex and rapidly changing world, achieving social justice, equality, and sustainable development has become a critical priority for every state and society. In this context, the 150th anniversary assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union – to be held for the first time in Central Asian history in the city of Tashkent – represents a significant political and strategic event for Uzbekistan.

The Inter-Parliamentary Union, established in 1889, is the largest and most prestigious international organization among legislative bodies. It unites more than 180 countries and includes 15 regional parliaments and 15 observer organizations. Hosting this event in our country serves as an excellent platform and opportunity to present the outcomes of ongoing reforms being carried out under the Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy and other national programs to the broader international community.

It is worth noting that 2025 marks a pivotal moment on the international political stage for Central Asia, particularly for Uzbekistan. For the first time, a prestigious assembly of such scale is being held in Tashkent, which not only strengthens the international standing of our nation but also represents a crucial step in the region’s integration into global political processes. Among the primary objectives of hosting the assembly are the development of inter-parliamentary cooperation and the promotion of peace and democracy.

Another high-level event – without doubt – is the first “Central Asia – European Union” summit, which recently commenced in the historic city of Samarkand. On the eve of this forum, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, gave an interview to the globally renowned media outlet Euronews, where he specifically addressed the potential of Central Asia and the growing interest of leading world powers in the region:

“Central Asia is no longer on the margins of history, but is turning into a dynamically developing region that is shaping its own strategic agenda. Political consolidation, the achieved high level of trust and joint economic initiatives in the region have created new opportunities for sustainable development. During its chairmanship of the Central Asian Five, Uzbekistan will pay special attention to three key areas: strengthening regional security, deepening economic integration and environmental sustainability”.

At the core of the three priority areas emphasized by our President lies strong legislation, supported by a capable parliament, robust legal capacity, and international cooperation. In this context, Tashkent’s role as the host of the 150th Assembly further enhances the international standing of our region. It transforms our country into an active participant in global political processes. Moreover, it is a fact that Uzbekistan’s national experience in such critical areas as lawmaking and parliamentary oversight is receiving broad recognition from the international community, foreign parliaments, and the public.

These achievements are not accidental. In recent years, under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, our national parliament has become an active participant in the country’s socio-economic advancement and foreign policy through a series of legal and democratic reforms. One of the key areas of activity of the Oliy Majlis, international inter-parliamentary cooperation, is also entering a qualitatively new stage in harmony with the broad-based reforms being carried out under the renewed Constitution and the Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy.

Parliamentary action for social development and justice

This year, the Assembly is addressing this theme precisely. Indeed, parliaments are increasingly viewed not only as bodies that enact laws, but also as proactive political institutions that drive social change, alleviate poverty, promote equal opportunities, and uphold human dignity.

The Assembly’s agenda encompasses a broad range of pressing issues, including peace and security, human rights, climate change, youth and women’s engagement, the impact of armed conflicts, and cooperation with the United Nations. In particular, political statements and peace initiatives in support of a two-state solution to the Palestinian situation will be a focal point of discussion. Additionally, several special events are planned, including a Youth Forum, a meeting of women parliamentarians, and sessions on artificial intelligence, children’s rights, and climate issues.

Overall, participants will have the opportunity to exchange best practices on strengthening the role of parliaments in addressing global challenges. I am confident that this significant assembly will provide an effective platform for constructive dialogue and the adoption of important decisions.

Uzbekistan’s experience in numbers...

It is worth acknowledging that in recent years, Uzbekistan has made significant progress in promoting social development and justice. These accomplishments are closely linked to the initiative, humanism, far-sighted political vision, strong will, and dedicated leadership of the country’s Head of state. In this context, let us turn our attention to some key statistics.

This year, 102 types of social services have been decentralized to the mahalla level. As a result, regular care services have been introduced for children with disabilities, creating opportunities for 700 parents to gain employment. Social services are now provided at home to approximately 4,000 elderly individuals who are unable to leave their homes due to immobility. Through social workers, assistance was delivered to 95,000 people in need across mahallas. Additionally, 51,000 individuals were granted disability status, and 5,000 children with special needs were placed in preschools and schools.

The reforms initiated by the Head of state reflect a clear commitment to the principles of social equality and justice, ensuring that every citizen in the country receives attention and care. In particular, guaranteeing the rights and interests of women and honoring their dignity has become a leading priority in national policy.

In 2017, women made up an average of 20 percent of leadership positions. Today, that figure has reached 35 percent. Women constitute 38 percent of the deputies in the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and 27 percent of the members of the Senate. Last year, female athletes representing Uzbekistan at the Olympic and Paralympic Games won 3 gold, 8 silver, and 3 bronze medals – the highest result ever recorded in the country’s history.

In conclusion, Uzbekistan is ready to host this international forum. The country stands at a crucial stage in the history of global parliamentarism – embarking on a new political path that places human dignity at its core. The documents to be adopted at the Assembly – declarations and resolutions – will serve as a practical roadmap for parliamentary activity in the 21st century.

A. Kuchimov,

Member of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan