Uzbekistan affirms secularism in new religious policy

Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has approved a new concept of state religious policy, according to the Gazeta.uz portal. The policy was introduced in response to recent attempts to impose religious-based rules that challenge gender equality, scientific progress and national interests.

Although Uzbekistan declared itself a secular state in 1992, the document notes that some citizens have advocated for religious-based restrictions, including:

• Refusing to fulfill civic duties.
• Rejecting public ethics, national values and universal principles.
• Limiting access to healthcare, scientific advancements, cultural achievements and essential goods and services.

Additionally, some individuals have questioned gender equality and certain civil servants have failed to fully grasp the principles of a secular state.

«The lack of a clear definition of state policy on religious affairs can lead to misunderstandings among the public, misinterpretation of secularism and increased societal tensions,» the document states.

Uzbekistan’s new religious policy aims to reinforce the relationship between the state and religious organizations. According to the concept, the country will continue to support:

• Legal education in religious institutions.
• Training highly qualified personnel for religious educational institutions.
• Organizing religious festivals.
• Preserving pilgrimage sites and sacred places.
• Preventing radicalization, including efforts to promote the superiority of one religion or denomination over others.
• Combating the influence of radical religious movements, extremist groups and terrorist organizations.

Additionally, the state will fund research on the religious cultures that have shaped Uzbekistan throughout history, as well as the religious and philosophical contributions of prominent scholars recognized for their impact on Islamic civilization.

The vast majority of Uzbeks practice Islam. In 1998, the country banned the wearing of hijabs and other religious garments, though the ban was lifted in 2021. While Radio Ozodlik has reported periodic police raids targeting men with beards in Uzbek cities, government officials have denied these claims.