Uzbekistan is experiencing significant transformations, and at the heart of this change are civil society institutions, particularly non-governmental non-profit organizations (NGOs). These organizations are playing a pivotal role in the country’s development and the execution of the “Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy. The development of a new Uzbekistan is intrinsically linked to the organization and activities of NGOs, adhering to democratic principles. Effective efforts are being made to support these institutions, enhance social partnerships with state bodies, implement robust public oversight, and refine the legal framework that governs these activities.
Significant strides have been made in improving the legal and regulatory framework to provide legal guarantees for NGOs while aligning with modern democratic standards and international norms. Key legislative measures include the laws “On non-governmental non-profit organizations,” “On guarantees for the activities of non-governmental non-profit organizations,” and “On public oversight.” Additionally, the Presidential Decree “On approval of the civil society development concept for the period 2021-2025” and several government decrees have been adopted.
The civil society development concept for 2021-2025 aims to bolster state support for civil society institutions through subsidies, grants, and social orders. By 2025, the volume of allocated funds is expected to increase to 70 billion soums, nearly doubling current support levels.
Several strategic documents outline goals, objectives, and indicators for the further development of civil society, including the Strategy for Action, the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026, and the “Uzbekistan – 2030” Strategy. State programs adopted annually focus on strengthening the activities of civil society institutions and NGOs.
The chapter titled “Civil society institutions” and the term itself were included for the first time in the new version of the Constitution adopted through a referendum in 2023. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has emphasized the importance of civil society institutions and NGOs in his publications, speeches, and reports. His book “Strategy of New Uzbekistan” includes a section titled “Free and Open Civil Society,” which outlines priority areas for civil society development based on a comprehensive analysis of national legislation, law enforcement practices, and best international experiences.
The number of NGOs in Uzbekistan has seen remarkable growth. From just 95 NGOs in 1991, the number surged to over 9,000 by 2024. These organizations play a crucial role in protecting the rights and legitimate interests of individuals and legal entities, upholding democratic values, and achieving social, cultural, and educational objectives.
The financial support and sustainability of NGOs have also seen dynamic growth. Between 2017 and 2023, 513.8 billion soums were allocated from the state budget to support 2,074 NGOs and other civil society institutions. The allocation increased from 12.3 billion soums in 2017 to 226.4 billion in 2023, with plans to allocate 1.8 trillion soums in 2024. State support for civil society institutions has broadened, with public funds established through local Councils (Kengash) of People’s Deputies, providing a legal basis for allocating local budget funds to support these institutions.
To facilitate the effective operation of NGOs, “Houses of non-governmental non-profit organizations” have been established in 14 regions, housing approximately 500 NGOs. These facilities provide necessary office equipment, furniture, and other tools, resolving many logistical issues and enabling NGOs to resume their socially beneficial activities. Newly established NGOs, particularly those in socially significant spheres, are accommodated in these buildings under the right of free use.
Additionally, the Academy of Public Administration under the President of Uzbekistan organizes training courses for NGO managers, enhancing their knowledge and skills based on the best foreign experiences. To date, 367 NGO leaders and managers have completed these advanced training courses, with plans to train 134 more by 2024.
NGOs actively propose and initiate improvements in state programs and legislation in their fields. They also conduct public oversight measures over the implementation of regional socioeconomic development programs and state initiatives.
The 83rd goal of the “Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy underscores the importance of expanding free civil society and media activities, aiming to transform Uzbekistan into a hub for civil society development. This goal includes increasing the number of projects implemented within the framework of social partnerships by at least threefold and boosting the number of NGOs participating in government programs to at least 80.
Civil society institutions and NGOs in Uzbekistan are vital supporters of state bodies and organizations. They play a critical role in reforms, sociopolitical and socioeconomic changes, and the achievement of strategic goals, serving as a bridge between society and government.
Anvarjon Mirkomilov, Head of Department, Development Strategy Center
