The international human rights organization Freedom House has released its annual global report, "Freedom in the World 2026." According to the study's findings, Uzbekistan has once again been categorized as a "not free" country. Experts assessed the level of development of democratic institutions in the republic at just 12 out of 100 possible points, matching last year's result.

The detailed report indicates that political rights in the country scored 2 out of 40 points, while the level of civil liberties was rated at 10 out of 60 points. Analysts note that despite reforms initiated after 2016, which have led to improvements in several areas, Uzbekistan remains an authoritarian state with minimal signs of genuine democratization.

The report emphasizes that there is no legally operating political opposition in the country. According to the document's authors, the legislative and judicial branches of power effectively serve as instruments of the executive authority, which initiates key changes through decrees. Mass media continue to be under strict control by official structures.

The global context of the 2026 report points to a two-decade trend of deteriorating freedom conditions worldwide. Authoritarian regimes are consolidating power and gaining the ability to reshape the international order. Freedom House experts call on the global community to enhance coordination and reassess approaches to supporting democracy, especially amid a reduction in international funding for such programs recorded in 2025.

The study's authors warn that the weakening of democratic leadership on the global stage leads to increased instability and conflicts. If international institutions continue to lose their influence, authoritarian governance models will gain popularity, directly impacting the security and economic interests of open societies.

Source: podrobno.uz