National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

During the meeting, particular attention was paid to the legal foundations governing relations between the state and religion in the New Uzbekistan, the safeguarding of freedom of conscience, the promotion of an atmosphere of tolerance, and the ongoing reforms in the religious sphere. In this context, the important role of the Concept of State Policy in the Religious Sphere and Ensuring Freedom of Conscience of Citizens in the Republic of Uzbekistan was underlined.

It was stressed that this Concept  Lex.uz has been developed drawing on the country’s rich national and historical experience of statehood and on universal human values. It is aimed at advancing the interests of society as a whole in a multi-ethnic and multi-confessional Uzbekistan and at ensuring a stable environment for sustainable development based on the principles of democracy, secularism, freedom, equality, social justice and solidarity.

The event also highlighted that, in a secular state, religious values likewise occupy an important place. These values play a significant role in shaping the culture, way of life, traditions and moral foundations of the people of Uzbekistan, being passed down from generation to generation. It was further emphasised that religious beliefs, interfaith tolerance and the humanistic essence of religions are among the spiritual and moral foundations of society, contributing to national unity and strengthening mutual respect and goodwill within families.

Participants also drew attention to the need to resist the influence of ideas that are alien to our society’s values and are disseminated on the internet under a religious guise and to treat various messages and information with a critical mindset. In cases where questions arise on religious matters, it was recommended to turn only to reliable sources, in particular to the Fatwa Centre under the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan, which can be reached via the short number 1171.