07.12.2021

On December 7, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev received the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while counter-terrorism Ms. Fionnuala Ní Aoláin.

The visit of a high representative of a leading international structure to Uzbekistan took place as a part of the realization of initiatives and suggestions proposed by the President at the 75th Session of the UN General Assembly.

The issues of further developing an open and constructive dialogue on the current human rights agenda and countering current challenges and threats were considered.

It was noted with satisfaction the productive nature of the cooperation and the significant progress made by Uzbekistan in these important directions.

Accordingly, Uzbekistan is a full member and actively participates at the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC). Uzbekistan will be represented in the authoritative bodies of this specialized institution for the next year.

As a part of the National Human Rights Strategy, Uzbekistan is actively implementing the work aimed at achieving a gender equality, freedom of expression and religion, and the development of civil society.

The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is ratified. The HRC Resolution on Protecting the Rights of Youth During the Pandemic was launched by the initiative of Uzbekistan and a relevant convention is being developed.

A number of fundamental laws were adopted in the security. A five-year strategy to fight extremism and terrorism was approved.

The Special Rapporteur has appreciated Uzbekistan’s efforts to return, rehabilitate and reintegrate its citizens in the framework of Operation «Mekhr» («Mercy»). Especially, the new approaches for the fight against terrorism and extremism were noted.

During the talks, a special attention was paid to continuing a close cooperation, especially in terms of the technical assistance and assistance in the implementation of the programs and projects in strengthening the role of civil society institutions, enhancing the role of women and supporting the youth, improving legislation and other areas.

It was agreed to hold a number of joint international events to consolidate Uzbekistan’s partnership with United Nations bodies and human rights institutions.