TASHKENT: The October 27 elections in Uzbekistan have been hailed as a significant milestone in the country’s democratic journey. These elections reflect extensive reforms aimed at enhancing political inclusivity and transparency, underscoring Uzbekistan’s commitment to fostering a more open political system.
According to local media reports, Tashkent hosted a press conference with international observer missions from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) following the parliamentary elections. Key figures, including Azay Guliyev, the OSCE’s Special Coordinator, Sargis Khandanyan from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, and Douglas Wake from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, shared their insights on the election monitoring.
The elections showcased notable changes in the electoral system and the strengthening of democratic processes. A key innovation was the increase in women’s representation in parliament, with the gender quota for candidates raised from 30% to 40%, allowing women to occupy 47 out of 150 seats in the Legislative Chamber. This shift underscores the growing role of women in Uzbekistan’s political landscape.
The Central Election Commission (CEC) was praised for its reliability in preparing for the elections, ensuring transparency through regular broadcasts and prompt decision-making. Approximately 20 million voters were registered, and the electoral process was accessible to public scrutiny. Legislative reforms in 2023 lifted voting restrictions for certain groups, reflecting the country’s commitment to international standards.
The CEC also focused on inclusivity, conducting consultations to enhance participation among people with disabilities. Election materials were provided in Braille and translated into sign language, while ballots were printed in Uzbek and local languages, ensuring accessibility for all voters.
Election day was orderly and calm, with a voter turnout of 74.7%, indicating strong public interest in the political process. The 2024 parliamentary elections represent a significant advancement in strengthening democratic practices and improving women’s representation in politics, reflecting Uzbekistan’s aspiration for a more open and inclusive political system crucial for its future development.
