Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s “New Uzbekistan” vision leads the country toward a modern and democratic state

The former Soviet republics have undergone various stages of political development, and Uzbekistan’s trajectory is particularly noteworthy, as it has demonstrated remarkable progress on political, economic, and social fronts. There is no doubt that the country is flourishing—let us take a closer look at the vision introduced by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who assumed power in 2016:

Political reforms in Uzbekistan

In 2017, President Mirziyoyev launched a five-year programme known as the “Action Strategy,” aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the Oliy Majlis (parliament).

The primary objective was to expand its powers and improve its efficiency. As part of this effort, technical, financial, and informational support for members of parliament was strengthened. In a move towards modernisation, new institutional units were established, and digital platforms introduced to facilitate public discussion of draft laws—thereby increasing transparency and executive accountability.

The political reforms were designed to deepen democratisation and uphold the rule of law. In 2023, a radical constitutional overhaul was undertaken. Among its many outcomes, it restricted the extradition of citizens, abolished the death penalty, and expanded human and civil rights and freedoms. In addition to reinforcing the role of parliament, the government promoted decentralisation through the direct election of local government leaders. President Mirziyoyev has gained broad public support with his anti-corruption stance, backing of political pluralism, and commitment to strengthening civil society.

I personally served as an observer during the autumn 2024 parliamentary elections, visiting several polling stations in both Tashkent and rural areas. I was able to witness first-hand the impact of recent electoral reforms. Under the new “mixed electoral system,” elections to the legislative chamber combined majoritarian and proportional representation for the first time: 75 MPs were elected directly by voters, while the remaining 75 were chosen via party lists. Parties were required to secure at least 7% of the vote to gain parliamentary representation (in Hungary, the threshold is 5%). Notably—and unlike in Hungary—authorities installed webcams at all polling stations, enabling anyone, anywhere in the world, to watch the voting process live.

Economic reforms

From our vantage point in Central Europe, we can only admire the transformation Central Asia has undergone in the past decade. The New Uzbekistan agenda includes far-reaching economic reforms, recognising that political change alone is insufficient without economic development—a lesson learned globally.

The clear goal has been to establish a market economy and boost competitiveness, thereby unlocking opportunities previously unavailable to Uzbekistan. Reforms included liberalisation of the currency market, unification of exchange rates, reduction of customs duties, modernisation of the banking and financial sectors, and a radical overhaul of the tax system.

To improve the business environment, administrative burdens were reduced, protectionist barriers dismantled, and free trade zones established to attract foreign investors. Modernisation of agriculture and industry, along with support for small and medium-sized enterprises, was prioritised. Infrastructure development—spanning energy, oil and gas, water management, and environmental protection—has received particular attention.

The new development strategy for 2022–2026 aims to double per capita GDP from $1,983 to $4,000, directly improving the population’s quality of life. Tellingly, to reduce reliance on foreign monetary policy, Uzbekistan plans to increase its gold reserves from 337 tonnes to 1,200 tonnes by 2030.

Uzbekistan’s leadership believes in regional cooperation and frequently partners with other Central Asian nations on infrastructure and economic initiatives. A strategic partnership with Hungary has also been established, encompassing energy investments such as nuclear power development, as well as technological advances in agriculture and water management. These efforts not only strengthen Uzbekistan’s economy but also foster closer ties between Tashkent and Brussels.

The fact that Hungary’s northern neighbour signed a strategic partnership agreement with Uzbekistan just three days ago further illustrates the strength of Uzbek-Hungarian relations. Slovakia is now the fourth EU member state—after Hungary, France, and Italy—to achieve this status, and more are expected to follow, thanks to President Mirziyoyev’s proactive foreign policy.

read also – Uzbekistan–Hungary relations: A flourishing strategic partnership driven by top-level diplomacy

Social reforms

At the heart of Uzbekistan’s social reforms lies the aim of improving citizens’ quality of life, safeguarding human rights, enhancing social welfare, and addressing key sectors such as education, healthcare, housing, and poverty reduction. The country actively cooperates with the United Nations in promoting human rights, holds membership in the UN Human Rights Council, and has initiated several UN resolutions.

International organisations acknowledge that Mirziyoyev’s reforms are irreversibly advancing equal opportunities, civil liberties, and the development of civil society.

Conclusion

Under President Mirziyoyev’s leadership, the “New Uzbekistan” programme seeks to democratise the political system, liberalise the economy, and drive social progress. These comprehensive reforms reinforce the rule of law, the market economy, and human rights, while encouraging international integration. In the long term, they promise sustainable growth and improved well-being for the people of Uzbekistan.

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