Shavkat Mirziyoyev the President of Uzbekistan since 2016, recently secured his re-election in an early poll held on July 9, 2023, with an overwhelming majority of over 87% of the vote. This article delves into his life, political career, and the significant reforms that have reshaped Uzbekistan during his tenure.
Early Life and Educational Pursuits:
Born on July 14, 1957, in the Jizzakh region of Uzbekistan to a family of medical professionals, Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s journey began with humble roots. He graduated in 1981 from the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanisation Engineers with a degree in mechanical engineering. His academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in engineering, earning him the title of an associate professor.
A Political Ascent:
Mirziyoyev’s foray into politics commenced in 1990 when he became a deputy in the Supreme Soviet of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic. Over the years, he assumed pivotal roles, including serving as the mayor of Tashkent’s Mirzo-Ulugbek district in 1992, the governor of the Jizzakh region in 1996, and the mayor of the Samarkand region in 2001. Simultaneously, he was a deputy in the Oliy Majlis (Parliament of Uzbekistan) from 1995 to 2003. His noteworthy contributions to regional development led to his appointment as Prime Minister of Uzbekistan in 2003, a position he held on three additional occasions in 2005, 2010, and 2015.
Presidential Leadership:
In September 2016, following the passing of former Uzbek President Islam Karimov, Shavkat Mirziyoyev was designated as interim president and subsequently elected as the nation’s president in December 2016.
The “Honour and Dignity” Reforms:
Mirziyoyev’s presidency has been defined by his visionary “honour and dignity” reforms, which have brought about a profound transformation in Uzbekistan. These reforms encompassed several key areas:
- Political Renewal: A steadfast commitment to infuse transparency and openness into the political system.
- Economic Modernization: The creation of a business-friendly environment, economic liberalization, and the eradication of the black market for foreign currencies.
- Rule of Law: Strengthening human rights, freedom of speech, and media freedom, all while upholding the rule of law.
- Social Advancements: The implementation of initiatives to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development.
- Global Engagement: A focus on building trust and fostering cooperative relations within Central Asia and on the global stage.
Economic and Social Reforms:
Mirziyoyev initiated substantial economic and social reforms, which included overhauling the tax system, implementing social projects to reduce poverty, and promoting sustainability for future generations. He laid the groundwork for an open and profit-generating free-market economy, liberalized foreign exchange, and eliminated the black market for foreign currencies. These actions removed barriers to the movement of goods and people, making way for a new, more liberal economy.
Uzbekistan’s Global Engagement:
President Mirziyoyev has been instrumental in shaping Uzbekistan’s foreign policy strategy. His efforts have aimed to foster an atmosphere of trust and good-neighbourly relations in the Central Asian region, while also strengthening cooperation with international partners, including leading global powers and international organizations.
Uzbekistan’s Vision for the Future:
Uzbekistan is currently progressing under the “New Uzbekistan 2022–2026” program, under Mirziyoyev’s leadership. This program seeks to build on previous reforms and position the nation as a hub for foreign investment and tourism in Central Asia. The objectives encompass economic growth, per capita GDP reaching USD 4,000, free-market competition, and the reduction of heavy-handed state regulation.
The “Uzbekistan-2030” Strategy:
The ongoing development of the “Uzbekistan-2030” Strategy continues the trajectory set by previous initiatives. The priorities of this strategy include creating conditions for individual empowerment, sustainable economic growth, environmental conservation, effective governance, and the vision of a secure and peace-loving Uzbekistan.
Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s presidency has ushered in an era of transformation, both domestically and on the global stage. His resolute commitment to reform and his vision for a prosperous and empowered Uzbekistan underline his dedication to improving the lives of Uzbek citizens and fostering sustainable regional development.