Issues of further improving the judiciary discussed

The judicial sector, which ensures human rights and the rule of law, remains a top priority for the state. Over the past eight years, around 70 laws, decrees, and resolutions have been adopted in this area, and the courts’ material and technical infrastructure has been improved. 

Last year, courts handled over 3 million cases, reflecting growing legal awareness among the population. These efforts contribute to efficiently addressing public and business-related issues and strengthening justice.

Currently, 14 judicial services, including the submission of applications, case status tracking, and access to electronic copies of court decisions, have already been digitized. The my.sud.uz portal continues to expand the number of available services and users. Around 17 million cases have been managed through information systems, and more than 15 million court cases have been assigned automatically, eliminating human intervention.

Additionally, as of November 1, 2024, the internal document workflow of courts has been transitioned to an electronic format, resulting in state budget savings of 638 million UZS in a short period.

It is necessary to consistently continue efforts to improve the judicial system and enhance the efficiency of court operations. In particular, the introduction of features such as preliminary forecasting of the likely outcome of court proceedings, calculation of estimated legal costs, the creation of a virtual legal assistant to support citizens, as well as online monitoring of court-imposed fines and their electronic payment, will increase convenience and make the judicial system more accessible. 

Today, many such new opportunities can be implemented with the advancement of artificial intelligence technologies. 

In this regard, measures aimed at increasing digitalization within the judiciary were discussed at the meeting.

According to the presented proposals, a phased transition to a fully digital judicial process is planned under the Digital Court concept, aiming to completely eliminate paper-based document workflow in the judicial system. 

An Information Technology Center will be established under the Supreme Court to implement these measures. This center will develop necessary information systems and software solutions, integrate artificial intelligence, and ensure cybersecurity in judicial processes. Electronic data exchange between courts and business entities will also be introduced, which will help expedite case processing.

The Head of state emphasized the importance of integrating the information systems of courts and all related organizations, noting that people should experience tangible convenience from the ongoing reforms. In this regard, instructions were given to expand digitalization and ensure the effective coordination of law enforcement agencies’ information databases with the judicial system. 

Each year, courts handle around one million undisputed cases. For example, civil courts reviewed nearly 200,000 cases related to utility bill arrears last year. However, such matters could be resolved at the level of notary offices. In this regard, a proposal was made to transfer the handling of undisputed cases to the relevant state agencies.

In accordance with the country’s Constitution, the Supreme Court is granted the right of legislative initiative. In this regard, the importance of analyzing the most pressing issues related to entrepreneurship, investment, infrastructure, land matters, taxation, lending, and labor relations was emphasized. It was also noted that corresponding proposals should be submitted monthly to the government and quarterly to parliament. 

The need to align judicial legislation with international standards, bring the judicial system closer to the people, and improve its funding was also highlighted.

Issues related to reforming the economic court system and establishing uniform judicial practices within them were discussed. 

Responsible officials were instructed to increase the number of court buildings and create the necessary conditions for citizens. 

The need to take measures to improve the qualifications of judges, particularly in information technology, and to enhance the training of young specialists in line with modern requirements was also emphasized.