In the contemporary world, geopolitical tensions and ideological conflicts are on the rise, often escalating into value-based and interfaith confrontations. This situation has exacerbated religious violence in various regions, driven by political and economic instability, and distorted perceptions of different cultures and faiths.
Analysts attribute the growing religiously motivated violence to a lack of understanding and respect among people of different faiths, compounded by misinformation and stereotyping. Inadequate religious freedom policies also play a significant role. According to UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief, N. Ganea, many individuals and communities are deprived of fundamental rights to their religious identity from birth.
In such unstable contexts, open and constructive dialogue between different religious and cultural groups is crucial for maintaining peace and stability. The United Nations recognized this need by designating August 22 as the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, raising global awareness about religious intolerance and violence.
Experts suggest that fostering interfaith harmony requires dialogue between different faiths, mutual understanding, and respect. Educational initiatives and joint programs aimed at addressing public issues are essential for strengthening interfaith harmony.
Uzbekistan, home to over 130 nationalities and 16 religious confessions, is renowned for its interfaith harmony. The country’s history is marked by peaceful coexistence of various religious groups. Since independence, Uzbekistan has implemented several reforms to maintain and enhance this tradition of tolerance.
From the first years of independence, the Uzbek government has prioritized interfaith harmony, balancing societal interests. Since 2016, under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, significant shifts have been made in religious policy, focusing on education, religious freedoms, and a proactive approach to combating extremism.
A major milestone was the adoption of the 2021 Law on Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations, which aligns with international norms. This law simplifies the registration of religious organizations, ensures legal guarantees for freedom of conscience, and lifts restrictions on public religious attire.
The 2023 updated Constitution further entrenches secularism and prohibits the imposition of any religion, laying the groundwork for societal harmony.
Although over 95% of Uzbekistan’s population is Muslim, the country pays special attention to religious minorities. Equal conditions are provided to all faiths, facilitating pilgrimages and offering comprehensive support, including medical services and visa processing.
To maintain interfaith dialogue, Uzbekistan has established feedback mechanisms and state coordination. The Committee for Religious Affairs and the expanded Council for Religious Affairs promote tolerant interaction and cooperation among religious organizations.
Uzbekistan has invested in Islamic education and the promotion of humanistic and tolerant principles of Islam. Institutions like the Imam Bukhari and Imam Termizi centers, and the Center for Islamic Civilization, study and disseminate the rich heritage of Uzbek ancestors.
The country has also strengthened international cooperation in promoting religious tolerance. The UN General Assembly’s approval of the “Enlightenment and Religious Tolerance” resolution highlights the importance of tolerance and mutual respect globally.
International conferences, such as the “Dialogue of Declarations” forum in Bukhara, further the discourse on interfaith dialogue. The “Bukhara Declaration” adopted at the forum emphasizes the peace-loving essence of religions and calls for a culture of tolerance and respect.
President Mirziyoyev, addressing the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in 2023, proposed creating an International Center for Interreligious Dialogue and Tolerance in Uzbekistan under UNESCO. An international conference on “Islam – a religion of peace and goodness” is also planned for 2024.
Author: Bekzod Ochilov, leading researcher at the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies – Edited by Gareth Stamp
