The government of Uzbekistan has approved a procedure for awarding one-time cash prizes to winners of prestigious international and national competitions in culture, art and literature, as well as to their teachers and concertmasters, under decree No. 617 dated 11 November 2026. The approved regulation also covers participation-related expenses. International Grand Prix and first-place winners will receive 300 million soum; second place will receive 200 million soum and third place 100 million soum. At national competitions, the Grand Prix and first place are set at 100 million soum, second place at 50 million soum and third place at 25 million soum.
Key Takeaways: International Grand Prix and first-place winners are entitled to a one-time award of 300 million soum. National Grand Prix and first-place winners will receive 100 million soum, with 50 million for second and 25 million for third. International competitions not included in the Culture Ministry’s approved list may still qualify if they meet specific criteria.
The decision is intended to support talent in the cultural sector, encourage artists who represent the country abroad and ease the financial burden linked to competition participation. By extending incentives to teachers and concertmasters, the regulation also strengthens the connection between professional training and stage practice. The document sets out clear conditions for reimbursing participation costs, which matters for travel planning, preparation of performances and transparent use of public funds. Officials expect the measure to make state support more targeted and predictable for creative professionals.
Under the regulation, winners and prize-winners of international competitions that are not on the Culture Ministry’s list may also claim a one-time cash award. The competition must meet several conditions: representatives of more than 30 countries must take part; information about it must be published in media of more than 20 countries; it must be supported or recognised by UNESCO or another major international organisation; and it must have at least four selection stages. These criteria are designed to ensure that awards are linked to genuinely reputable and internationally significant competitions.
In the coming period, the Culture Ministry’s approved list, application review procedures and payment mechanisms will be central to implementation. Clear criteria and fixed amounts could make the support system more predictable and encourage creative professionals to take part more actively in international events. The decree is expected to become part of broader state policy in culture, aimed at professional development of performers, artists, writers and educators, while maintaining budget discipline and public accountability. Successful implementation will depend on timely public information and coordinated work among the relevant agencies.
Source: kun.uz