As Uzbekistan prepares for its parliamentary elections on 27 October 2024, the international community is watching closely to observe the country’s democratic progress. The vote comes at a time when Uzbekistan is striving to consolidate its democratic gains under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. International observers, notably from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), will be present to oversee the elections, ensuring their transparency and credibility.
Uzbekistan has previously invited the OSCE to observe its elections, signaling its intention to meet international standards for transparency and fairness. In 2024, the role of international observers will again be crucial in evaluating the legitimacy of the parliamentary elections as Uzbekistan works to strengthen its democratic institutions.
Uzbekistan’s Path to Reform
Uzbekistan’s political landscape has changed significantly since President Mirziyoyev came to power in 2016, following the death of Islam Karimov, who ruled the country for over two decades with an iron fist. Under Karimov, the political system was highly centralized, leaving little room for opposition or civil liberties. Mirziyoyev has sought to distinguish himself from his predecessor by adopting reforms aimed at improving governance, liberalizing the economy, and strengthening the rule of law.
One of the most significant changes came with the 2023 constitutional referendum, which introduced amendments to expand citizens’ rights, and introduce an improved new checks and balances system. The 2024 parliamentary elections will therefore be a critical test of Uzbekistan’s progress towards a more pluralistic and democratic political system. The credibility of this process will largely depend on the involvement of international observers, particularly the OSCE.
The OSCE’s Role in Election Observation
The OSCE has played a key role in observing elections across the post-Soviet space, including in Uzbekistan. Through its Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), the OSCE has observed several elections in the country, providing detailed assessments of the electoral environment. These reports typically cover areas such as voter registration, campaign conditions, media freedom, and the conduct of the vote itself.
In the past, OSCE observation missions have raised concerns about the fairness of elections in Uzbekistan. For example, during the 2021 presidential election, the OSCE described the election as “technically well-prepared.” However, the final report also highlighted issues such as the dominance of pro-government media and the lack of equitable conditions for opposition candidates.
As in previous elections, the OSCE will play an essential role in monitoring the electoral process. This will include deploying long- and short-term observers.
The Importance of International Observers
The presence of international observers is critical in ensuring that elections are conducted transparently and fairly. In countries like Uzbekistan, where the political system is still transitioning after decades of authoritarian rule, neutral and independent observers can help bolster public confidence in the electoral process. Observers monitor not only election day activities, such as voting and counting, but also the broader political context, including campaign conditions and media coverage.
In Uzbekistan, past elections have been criticized for their lack of competitiveness and restrictive media environment. The OSCE’s 2021 election report noted that the election was free of major irregularities. For the 2024 parliamentary elections, it will be crucial to ensure that all political parties can campaign freely and that voters have access to a wide range of political perspectives to create a more credible process.
Another important aspect of the OSCE’s work is its post-election recommendations. These recommendations often form the basis for future electoral reforms, providing governments with a roadmap for improving their electoral systems. In Uzbekistan, previous OSCE reports have led to discussions about changes to electoral laws and the role of media during elections.
Uzbekistan’s International Standing
For Uzbekistan, the 2024 parliamentary elections are not only a test of its internal reforms but also a signal to the international community regarding its commitment to democratic standards. President Mirziyoyev has sought to portray Uzbekistan as a reforming nation, open to international cooperation and investment. A transparent and fair electoral process could enhance Uzbekistan’s standing with key international partners, such as the European Union and the United States, both of which have shown interest in deepening ties with the country.
However, a failure to deliver credible elections could have significant consequences for Uzbekistan’s reputation. In a region where democratic governance is still the exception rather than the rule, Uzbekistan has the opportunity to set itself apart by demonstrating a genuine commitment to political pluralism and the rule of law.
Still a Long Way to Go
The 2024 parliamentary elections mark a turning point for Uzbekistan. While the country has made progress in opening up its political system, much work remains to ensure that elections are free, fair, and competitive. The role of international observers, particularly from the OSCE, will be crucial in assessing the transparency of the elections and providing recommendations for future reforms.
For Uzbekistan, the stakes are high. These elections represent an opportunity to show the world that it is serious about its democratic aspirations. The country’s ability to seize this opportunity will depend not only on how the elections are conducted but also on its willingness to accept the recommendations of international observers and continue along the path of reform.