Uzbek expert: “A lot needs to be done to restore an environment of trust”

"A lot needs to be done to restore the environment of trust, mutual understanding and stability. Because the deaths and injuries as a result of the events in Karakalpakstan leave a mark in the memory," Oleg Golishnikov, an independent Uzbek expert, told Report while commenting on the riots in Karakalpakstan.

"Currently, the situation has normalized, and the government managed to control the situation in a short period of time. A state of emergency has been declared there to ensure security and order. It will continue until early August," the expert said.

According to him, the visits of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to Nukus played an essential role in the quick stabilization of the situation: "He saw his work as a guarantor of the rights and freedoms of citizens, the Constitution and the laws of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Overall, in my opinion, the government will draw the right conclusion from this situation. This also includes proper communication with different population groups before important socio-political events such as amendments to the country's basic laws."

The expert emphasized that the possible consequences of the decisions taken to prevent future crises should be thoroughly investigated: "Regarding evaluation, exaggeration and underestimation should not be allowed here. Otherwise, unnecessary problems may arise. Particular attention should be paid to developing organizations (including independent organizations) that conduct social surveys and determine the mood in society.

"It is important for the local press to cover the events promptly and objectively. If not, other information, including "fake" information, may fill the gap. The government must prevent non-constructive forces, including foreign forces, from using the situation for their own purposes. Throughout the history of our independence, Tashkent has always been the centre of Uzbekistan. This is the case now and will continue to be the case," the expert stressed.