Uzbekistan Strengthens Anti-Corruption Efforts with New Initiatives
Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev chaired a meeting of the National Anti-Corruption Council on March 5, where the country’s progress in fostering a corruption-free environment was reviewed, and future priorities were outlined.
In his address, President Mirziyoyev stressed that corruption remains the most serious obstacle to reforms. In response, a comprehensive anti-corruption framework has been developed, including new legislation, specialized parliamentary committees, and institutions such as the National Anti-Corruption Council and the Anti-Corruption Agency.
The meeting highlighted enhanced public engagement in combating corruption, with increasing involvement from mass media in exposing misconduct. Efforts to eliminate corruption at its root were discussed, including the transition to auction-based land allocation, the Shaffof Qurilish (Transparent Construction) program, and the adoption of the Law on Public Procurement, which collectively saved 14 trillion UZS in state funds last year.
Key Reforms and Achievements
- Digitalization of Services: Consumer loans up to 100 million UZS are now processed online within minutes, reducing human involvement and freeing bank employees for grassroots economic development initiatives.
- Education Sector Reforms: 10 types of school-related services have been digitized, reducing paperwork by 2.5 times, while automated university selection and digital exams have streamlined the higher education system.
- Public Services and Business Growth: The government has abolished 120 document requirements, cut over 160 permits and licenses, and introduced 721 electronic government services, contributing to the fivefold increase in foreign-participation businesses.
As a result of these reforms, over $120 billion in investments have been attracted in the past seven years, doubling the economy to reach $115 billion in 2024.
New Measures and Future Plans
- Restructuring Anti-Corruption Councils: Regional councils will be overhauled, with chairpersons of local legislatures leading anti-corruption efforts.
- Stronger Oversight in Key Sectors: The Anti-Corruption Agency will oversee compliance in health, construction, and water resources ministries, as well as Uzbekneftegaz and Uzsuvta’minot.
- Public Procurement Transparency: An Expert Commission will ensure that public procurement costs remain within 20% of market rates, with strict penalties for violations.
- Income Declarations for Officials: A draft law mandating public officials to declare their income will be submitted for public discussion.
- Strengthened Legal Framework: New legislation will introduce tougher anti-corruption compliance measures, stricter oversight of large investments and auctions, and enhanced citizen participation in public service evaluations.
Addressing the public, President Mirziyoyev underscored that the fight against corruption is a national duty, calling for the active participation of citizens, civil society, and intellectuals in combating corrupt practices.
For the first time, such a high-level anti-corruption event was held, reinforcing Uzbekistan’s strong political will to eradicate corruption. The President presented 55 specific initiatives, including the development of five laws, 12 decrees, and multiple resolutions.
These efforts will improve Uzbekistan’s international standing, with the goal of positioning the country as a candidate to host the UNCAC conference by 2027. Most importantly, the nationwide commitment to integrity will strengthen public trust, enhance legal awareness, and foster a corruption-intolerant society.
