Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 28 August, a national scientific-practical conference titled “Independence: A Priceless Blessing, Responsibility, and Opportunities” was held in Tashkent.

The event was organized jointly by the National Centre of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights, the Institute of State and Law of the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan, and the Academy of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Uzbekistan.

The conference was timed to coincide with the 34th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence. It brought together participants both in-person and remotely, including representatives of leading law schools and research organizations, members of the Coordination Council for the Development of Legal Sciences, and members of the Scientific-Coordinating and Public Councils under the National Centre for Human Rights.

The opening speech was delivered by Akmal Saidov, Director of the National Centre for Human Rights and Deputy of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis. He emphasized that the promotion, protection, and observance of human rights and freedoms in the new Uzbekistan are among the key priorities of state policy. Over the past years, a strong foundation has been laid to ensure the principles of national statehood, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.

Saidov noted that the new Uzbekistan, increasingly open to the world and implementing rapid reforms, adheres firmly to the principle of a “state for the people” and is becoming an integral part of global transformations. The exchange of international best practices in implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, advancing digital transformation, introducing innovative solutions in public services, and significantly increasing the efficiency of state institutions has become more relevant than ever.

Uzbekistan supports the initiatives of the UN Secretary-General to ensure international peace and stability. Cooperation with the UN has reached unprecedented levels: 160 joint programs and projects have been successfully implemented, and a UN Women office has opened in Tashkent.

Human rights remain a benchmark of modern civilization. Currently, over 150 national human rights plans or strategies have been adopted in 80 countries worldwide.

Uzbekistan’s National Human Rights Strategy, adopted in 2020, was the first document of its kind. Over the past four years, 2 codes, 33 laws, 15 decrees, and 11 Cabinet of Ministers’ resolutions directly related to human rights protection have been adopted. A new draft National Human Rights Strategy for the period until 2030 has been developed.

At the conference, speeches were delivered by Muzaffardzhon Mamasiddikov, Head of the Academy of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, and Murodzhon Turgunov, Director of the Institute of State and Law of the Academy of Sciences. Both emphasized that independence represents not only a significant opportunity but also a profound responsibility.

Several leading legal scholars also presented papers, highlighting achievements in the study of the history of national statehood and law since independence and analyzing challenges faced by researchers.

The conference concluded with a discussion of the achievements and opportunities created by independence. Participants formulated proposals and recommendations for further study and promotion of these results on a scientific basis.