Uzbekistan: Corruption and Criminality Entwined in Government

Recent investigations have exposed the pervasive corruption within Uzbekistan’s government, revealing that two of the country’s alleged top criminal leaders hold high-ranking positions. The report highlights the deep-seated links between organized crime and the state apparatus, with law enforcement officials often complicit in illegal activities.

Corruption and Criminality Entwined

Transnational criminal flows occur under the protection of border control officials, low- and mid-level officials, and even certain ministers.
The Uzbek government’s involvement in drug trafficking has been exposed, as well as its close ties to Russia and other Central Asian nations through criminal networks.

Democratic Process Compromised

Despite small signs of liberalization since President Shavkat Mirziyoyev took office in 2016, the democratic process remains widely corrupted and penetrated by organized crime. Public resources are misused to sustain power and wealth for those in or close to the ruling elite.

Judiciary Compromised

Judges often rubber-stamp verdicts passed down by law enforcement agencies and the prosecutor general’s office.
Corruption is rampant throughout all levels of law enforcement, with police frequently extorting bribes and intimidating whistle-blowers.

Banking Sector Vulnerable to Money Laundering

The Uzbekistan banking sector operates in a non-transparent environment, making it vulnerable to money laundering. The government has made some efforts to combat corruption, but significant reforms are needed to address the entrenched issues.

Efforts Towards Transparency

In a rare move, the government has taken steps to increase transparency surrounding the country’s penitentiaries, releasing data on prison conditions and detainees for the first time in 2020.
However, many prisoners continue to face physical abuse and torture.

Economic and Financial Environment Marred by Corruption

Small banks operate under close state control and are vulnerable to money laundering.
The government has made some progress in simplifying business registration procedures, but bureaucratic processes and poorly enforced land and property rights remain major hurdles for entrepreneurs.

Civil Society Organizations and the Media

Civil society organizations play a vital role in providing assistance to victims of organized crime, but the government’s lack of trustworthiness means many victims are reluctant to report crimes or cooperate with authorities.
The media is heavily restricted, with freedom of speech severely limited and any criticism of the government met with hostility.

International Cooperation Crucial

As Uzbekistan struggles to address its deep-seated corruption and criminality issues, international cooperation remains crucial in combating transnational crime. While some progress has been made in improving relations with neighboring countries and ratifying relevant treaties, more needs to be done to strengthen the country’s institutions and ensure transparency and accountability.