The event brought together representatives of state bodies, civil society, academia, and international partners to discuss Uzbekistan’s progress over the past three years in advancing justice system reforms and strengthening the rule of law. Participants highlighted the country’s achievements in improving access to justice, establishing a system of free legal aid, and enhancing protection mechanisms for vulnerable groups, including women, persons with disabilities, and residents of remote areas.

In her speech, UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan Ms. Akiko Fujii emphasized the tangible results of the project “Strengthening the Rule of Law and Human Rights Protection in Uzbekistan”:

“In just three years, through our Rule of Law project, more than 28,500 citizens — including women, youth, and persons with disabilities — have received free legal aid. Together with civil society and government partners, we are now launching the digital platform ‘Yuridik Yordam’ to make access to justice even more inclusive and open to all.”

The roundtable also featured presentations by national partners and civil society organizations. The public association of persons with disabilities “Sharoyit Plus” introduced the legal assistance portal huquqplus.uz, designed to support people with disabilities. The NGO “Mehrjon” shared information about the construction of a shelter to provide protection and services for survivors of gender-based violence. Both initiatives exemplify efforts to promote human rights and access to justice at the local level.

“The Ombudsman’s institution, in cooperation with civil society, is working to advance the protection of human rights in Uzbekistan. We have conducted a comprehensive analysis of national legislation from the perspective of the Istanbul Protocol requirements, which contributes to stronger safeguards against torture and ill-treatment. Our ongoing monitoring visits to penitentiary institutions are aimed at improving conditions in line with international standards. For us, the dignity and rights of every individual are of paramount importance. We will always strive to ensure that justice and equality become vital principles for everyone,” said Ms. Feruza Eshmatova, Commissioner of the Oliy Majlis for Human Rights (Ombudsman).

At the conclusion of the roundtable, selected NGOs that contributed to the promotion of human rights were provided with information and communication technologies to strengthen their activities in delivering primary and secondary legal aid to the population. The event concluded with practical recommendations for further strengthening Uzbekistan’s justice and human rights protection systems.