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Uzbekistan’s War on Crime: A Fragile Progress

Tashkent, Uzbekistan - In a country long plagued by corruption and organized crime, Uzbekistan has made some notable strides in recent years to combat these issues. However, despite efforts to improve its anti-money laundering framework and simplify business registration procedures, the risk of money laundering and terrorist financing remains high.

A Delicate Balance

While the government has taken steps to ensure legitimate businesses operate freely, there is still a significant amount of red tape for entrepreneurs to navigate. Land and property rights are not effectively upheld, and the COVID-19 pandemic has hindered progress on many fronts.

The Plight of Victims

Uzbekistan’s efforts to assist victims of organized crime have been marred by delays and inefficiencies. Non-state actors have taken the lead in providing support, but the government’s response has been criticized for being inadequate and often intimidating. Victims are reluctant to cooperate with law enforcement due to distrust and fear for their safety.

A Ray of Hope

Despite these challenges, Uzbekistan has made some progress in recent years. The country has increased its efforts to combat human trafficking, and there have been notable decreases in systemic child labor and forced labor in the cotton harvest industry.

Civil Society’s Role

Independent human rights activists and civil society organizations have played a crucial role in highlighting the issues of government-compelled forced labor and drawing international attention to the problem. However, the government has restricted NGO activities and exercises control over all media coverage.

A Long Road Ahead

While Uzbekistan has made some progress, there is still much work to be done to eradicate corruption and organized crime. The country’s fragile progress is threatened by ongoing challenges, including a lack of communication and coordination between government agencies and civil society organizations.

A Call to Action

The international community must continue to pressure the Uzbek government to prioritize transparency and accountability. Civil society organizations and independent human rights activists must be given greater freedom to operate and advocate for reforms. Only then can Uzbekistan hope to build a more just and equitable society.