Human Rights in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is controlled by the regime of President Islam Karimov; an administration described as one of the world's most authoritarian dictatorships. Its people are denied access to democratic elections; media freedoms are severely curtailed; opposition politicians; independent journalists and human rights defenders are routinely harassed by the state officials, and torture in prisons in both systematic and widespread.

On 13 May 2005, Uzbekistan's human rights record made international headlines as government troops opened fire on a peaceful demonstration in the city of Andijan. Eye witnesses said that between 300 and 400 people were present during the worst of the shooting which left few survivors. But while the Andijan massacre provided the world with a snapshot of the Karimov regime, what lies behind the events represents a systematic framework of human rights abuses.

No Democracy
Under Uzbekistan's electoral system, parliamentary candidates are vetted for loyalty to the government and screened for signs of independent thinking. Genuine opposition groups have sought to stand in national elections, but are continually denied registration. Their members are harassed, and some report being detained and subjected to torture. Given the climate of fear and intimidation, the leaders of Uzbekistan's two major opposition parties are currently in exile.

Media Censorship
The Karimov regime imposes severe restrictions on freedom of expression. Those who push the government's limits receive swift retribution. In recent years numerous journalists responsible for articles criticizing the government have been arrested and imprisoned.

Obstructing NGOs
Organizations defending human rights endure systematic obstruction, while individuals who challenge the authorities do so at great personal risk. In recent years the government has harassed, threatened and detained human rights defenders in an attempt to restrict information on human rights abuses.

Peaceful Protest
Individuals attempting to demonstrate against conditions in Uzbekistan are commonly attacked, harassed, detained or placed under house arrest. The administration attempts to obstruct public rallies by requiring demonstrators to obtain permits from authorities. Known human rights defenders are often held in custody during planned rallies to interfere with the demonstrations.

Freedom of Movement
By law, every citizen must be registered as being resident in a designated region. In order to move from one place to another, Uzbeks are required to obtain a state visa amending their official residential registration. These documents are rarely forthcoming and can only be obtained in conjunction with substantial bribes.

Poor Labour Rights
Uzbekistan's trade unions are heavily influenced by the Karimov regime: none is independent. With no avenues for collective bargaining, Uzbekistan's nine million workers can do little to address issues such as the country's pitiful minimum wage, or the government's failure to pay on time. At the end of 2004 Uzbekistan's minimum wage stood at just US$6.53 per month.

Torture
According to the former UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, Uzbekistan's use of torture is "systematic" and is employed both as a means of extracting evidence before a trial, and as a punitive measure once sentencing has occurred. Beating is the most common form of physical mistreatment, but police, prison officials and the National Security Service also resort to suffocation, electric shock, rape and other sexual abuses.