On February 14, 2024, the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH), in cooperation with representatives of the Uzbek government and judiciary and the Embassy of Uzbekistan to the Benelux and the EU, hosted an engaging and high-profile Roundtable Session on Democratic Transformation in Uzbekistan.
Here’s a quick recap of the key takeaways from the session:
- The event began with welcoming remarks by H.E. Mr. Christophe Bernasconi, Secretary General of the HCCH, and H.E. Mr. Gayrat Fazilov, Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the Kingdom of Belgium and the Netherlands, who highlighted Uzbekistan’s progress in implementing reforms, its emerging role in the international arena, and its determination to engage in mutual cooperation with other countries.
- H.E. Ambassador Kairat Abdrakhmanov, OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, delivered an inspiring keynote address to the Roundtable, praising Uzbekistan’s exemplary leadership and proactive approach to reform. He highlighted the country’s commendable efforts to overcome its challenges with resilience and optimism, underscoring Uzbekistan’s critical role as a model of transformation and progress.
- H.E. Mrs. Svetlana Artikova, Deputy Prosecutor General of the Republic of Uzbekistan, delivered an engaging presentation highlighting Uzbekistan’s significant progress in its reform journey. Her presentation projected a vibrant spirit of progress, highlighting the country’s impressive legal and social transformation. Mrs. Artikova provided a vivid overview of the steps taken to create a robust, independent judicial system and underscored Uzbekistan’s commitment to promoting social progress.
- Dr. Ali Marossi, Managing Partner of The Hague Center for Law and Arbitration (HCLA), thoroughly analysed the global significance of Uzbekistan’s legal reforms. He emphasized how the country’s evolving legal framework is strategically designed to encourage business innovation and attract investment, creating a fertile ground for economic growth. Mr. Marossi also highlighted significant progress in arbitration reform, demonstrating Uzbekistan’s commitment to improving dispute resolution and enhancing its attractiveness as a premier destination for international business and investment.
- H.E. Mr. Jahongir Abdurasulov, a member of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, shared his insights into the legislative underpinnings of the reform efforts. His detailed overview of the legislative updates underscored their importance for Uzbekistan’s democratic transformation and its goal of strengthening international economic relations, particularly with the European Union.
The roundtable ended with a lively question-and-answer session, sparking a rich exchange of perspectives, inquiries, and insights. This engaging event significantly increased understanding of and enthusiasm for Uzbekistan’s journey toward democratic transformation and legal reform, and highlighted the critical role of international cooperation in supporting countries on their path to reform and development. It also provided a valuable forum for the dissemination of knowledge and best practices, underscoring the collective commitment to fostering effective change, particularly in the context of the ambitious Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy.
Note: The report has been carefully compiled by the HCLA legal team and may not necessarily reflect the exact views expressed by the speakers. For more in-depth insight and further exploration, interested readers are encouraged to contact the speakers directly or email HCLA at tgg@hclanl.com.
