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One of the keys to Uzbekistan's reforms in the long-term is its credibility: whether those inside and outside the country believe that "reforms are real." Today, President Mirziyoyev made strong statement about press freedom Says, "Don't be afraid." https://www.gazeta.uz/ru/2021/02/04/president-media/
The president has also encouraged a young generation of bloggers to hold the government accountable at the local level. Despite this, a young blogger in Termez was arrested this week. He had been very critical of local authorities. https://www.rferl.org/a/uzbek-blogger-critical-of-local-governor-arrested-for-alleged-extortion/31083749.html
His family shared their own home webcam images from his arrest. Have not heard any updates on his status. While @Aga_Pik's important case received swift attention, we have not heard much about this. https://www.ozodlik.org/a/31082434.html
Media & local bloggers play the most important role in helping the government achieve its reforms: they provide oversight and criticism. Their role is fundamental because elections in Uzbekistan remain uncompetitive. In all of his speeches, the President encourages them to work.
The ability of media to hold officials accountable is such a lynchpin of reform anywhere. The reforms of the kind envisioned by Mirziyoyev will be impossible to achieve without oversight of all authorities. Credibility is easy to lose, hard to regain. https://eurasianet.org/uzbekistan-harassment-case-highlights-wariness-over-foreign-reporters
It is the actions of the government that give it credibility--not it's words. Right now they seem to be moving in opposite directions.
Important @Aga_Pik analysis shows paradox of Uzbekistan's reforms.
Much inside government structures has not changed. Yet, society opened up alot. People less afraid.
When govt beg for positive coverage in this new environment it makes state seem desperate & reforms hollow.
Much inside government structures has not changed. Yet, society opened up alot. People less afraid.
When govt beg for positive coverage in this new environment it makes state seem desperate & reforms hollow.
