Uzbekistan is making headlines with a significant initiative aimed at combating corruption, reflecting a deep commitment to building a society where integrity, transparency, and accountability are fundamental principles. The recent Resolution signed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to establish a system for continuous improvement of knowledge among citizens and civil servants in the fight against corruption marks a transformative step in the nation’s governance.
A virtual anti-corruption academy: A ground breaking initiative
Central to this initiative is the creation of the Virtual Anti-Corruption Academy, set to launch on January 1, 2025. This platform will serve as a comprehensive educational hub, providing courses and training to both civil servants and ordinary citizens. The Academy aims to cultivate an intolerant attitude towards corruption, equipping individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to recognize and combat corrupt practices.
The Academy’s reach is extensive, offering educational programs tailored to various demographic groups, including preschool and school children, students, entrepreneurs, and representatives of non-governmental organizations. The curriculum will be designed to cater to different age groups and professional backgrounds, ensuring relevance and accessibility. Training at the Academy will be mandatory for all civil servants, reinforcing the importance of integrity in public service.
The initiative has garnered positive reactions from international experts. Alexander Klishin, an adviser at the UN Office of Rule of Law and Security Institutions, described the Virtual Academy as a pioneering step that aligns with global efforts to promote transparency and accountability. Similarly, Anas Fayyad Qarman, the UNDP Resident Representative a.i. in Uzbekistan, emphasized the Academy’s role in strengthening the anti-corruption ecosystem.
Historical Context and Modern Challenges
Corruption is not a new phenomenon in Uzbekistan. Historical records indicate that corrupt practices, then termed “tamagir” or greed, have existed since at least the 14th century. The challenge of corruption has persisted despite various efforts to curb it. In contemporary Uzbekistan, corruption manifests in various forms, from bribery in educational institutions to misconduct within law enforcement and administrative bodies. Such practices undermine public trust and hinder economic development.
The economic implications of corruption are profound. It fosters an environment where illegal business practices thrive, market competition is distorted, and public resources are misallocated. This not only hampers economic growth but also exacerbates social inequality, eroding the social fabric.
In recent years, Uzbekistan has made significant strides in addressing corruption. The adoption of the Law “On Combating Corruption” in 2017 established a legal framework for anti-corruption efforts, defining mechanisms for implementation and outlining the roles of various bodies in this endeavor. The creation of the Anti-Corruption Agency in 2020 marked another critical step, tasked with coordinating national anti-corruption strategies, enhancing public awareness, and improving transparency in government operations.
The Anti-Corruption Agency’s mandate includes conducting systematic analyses of corruption risks, implementing preventive measures, and promoting legal and ethical standards across society. These efforts are complemented by reforms in public procurement, administrative procedures, and the digitalization of public services, all aimed at reducing opportunities for corrupt practices.
A Global Perspective and Future Outlook
The international community has recognized Uzbekistan’s efforts, with experts like Antti Karttunen of the OSCE and Quentin Reed of Oxford University highlighting the significance of the Virtual Anti-Corruption Academy. These experts emphasize that education and awareness are crucial in preventing corruption, particularly among public servants and vulnerable groups.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Corruption cases continue to surface, with numerous officials prosecuted annually. This indicates that while progress has been made, there is still a long road ahead in eradicating corruption. The government recognizes this and has set ambitious goals, such as improving its position in international transparency and anti-corruption rankings.
Looking forward, the fight against corruption in Uzbekistan will require sustained efforts across multiple fronts. Legal reforms must continue to evolve, ensuring that anti-corruption measures are robust and effective. There is also a need for enhanced social protection for civil servants, standardized remuneration systems, and comprehensive asset declaration mechanisms to prevent conflicts of interest.
Moreover, raising public awareness and legal literacy remains a priority. The Virtual Anti-Corruption Academy represents a critical tool in this regard, fostering a culture of honesty and ethical behavior. It is crucial for citizens to understand that combating corruption is not solely the responsibility of the state but a collective societal duty.
Uzbekistan’s initiative to combat corruption through continuous education and awareness is a commendable effort that sets a valuable example for other nations. By establishing the Virtual Anti-Corruption Academy, the country is taking a proactive stance in promoting transparency and accountability. While challenges persist, the commitment to eradicating corruption and fostering a culture of integrity provides a strong foundation for future progress.
This article synthesizes insights from “A system will be created in Uzbekistan to continuously improve the knowledge of citizens and civil servants in the fight against corruption” by Dunyo IA, and “Uzbekistan: the fight against corruption is the main condition of national security” by Alisher Achilov, Associate Professor of the Department of “Criminal Legal Disciplines” at the University of Public Security of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Doctor of Philosophy in Legal Sciences (PhD). The views expressed reflect the authors’ perspectives on Uzbekistan’s ongoing anti-corruption efforts and their significance on a global scale. Edited by Gareth Stamp.
