Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who has held the presidency of Uzbekistan since 2016 and recently secured re-election in July 2023, stands as a pivotal figure in Central Asian politics. This article explores his life, political journey, and the transformative reforms that have reshaped Uzbekistan during his tenure.
Early Life and Academic Achievements:
Shavkat Mirziyoyev was born on July 14, 1957, into a family of medical professionals in Uzbekistan’s Jizzakh region. His journey led to a mechanical engineering degree from the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanisation Engineers in 1981. He further solidified his academic credentials by earning a Ph.D. in engineering, achieving the title of an associate professor.
Ascension in Politics:
Mirziyoyev’s political career commenced in 1990 when he became a deputy in the Supreme Soviet of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic. Over the years, he assumed significant roles, including mayor of the Mirzo-Ulugbek district of Tashkent, governor of the Jizzakh region, and mayor of the Samarkand region. Simultaneously, he served as a deputy in the Oliy Majlis, the Uzbek Parliament, from 1995 to 2003. His notable contributions to regional development culminated in his appointment as Prime Minister of Uzbekistan in 2003, a role he occupied three more times in 2005, 2010, and 2015.
Presidential Leadership:
In September 2016, following the passing of former Uzbek President Islam Karimov, Shavkat Mirziyoyev was named interim president and was later elected as the nation’s president in December 2016.
The “Honour and Dignity” Reforms:
Mirziyoyev’s presidency has been defined by the ambitious “honour and dignity” reforms, encompassing several critical areas:
- Political Renewal: A commitment to infusing transparency and openness into the political system.
- Economic Modernization: Creating a business-friendly environment, economic liberalization, and eliminating the black market for foreign currencies.
- Rule of Law: Strengthening human rights, freedom of speech, and media freedom while upholding the rule of law.
- Social Advancements: Executing initiatives aimed at poverty alleviation and sustainable development.
- Global Engagement: Focusing on building trust and fostering cooperative relations within Central Asia and on the global stage.
Economic and Social Transformation:
Mirziyoyev spearheaded substantial economic and social reforms, including an overhaul of the tax system and the implementation of social projects aimed at reducing poverty and ensuring sustainability for future generations. He laid the groundwork for an open, profit-generating free-market economy, liberalized foreign exchange, and virtually eliminated the black market for foreign currencies. These actions removed barriers to the movement of goods and people, ushering in a new era of economic liberalism.
Uzbekistan’s Global Role:
President Mirziyoyev has played a crucial role in shaping Uzbekistan’s foreign policy strategy, fostering an atmosphere of trust and strong neighborly relations in the Central Asian region while enhancing cooperation with international partners, including major global powers and international organizations.
Uzbekistan’s Vision for Tomorrow:
Currently, Uzbekistan is advancing under the “New Uzbekistan 2022–2026” program under Mirziyoyev’s leadership. This program aims to consolidate past reforms and establish Uzbekistan as a prominent destination for foreign investment and tourism in Central Asia. Core objectives include sustained economic growth, raising per capita GDP to USD 4,000, promoting free-market competition, and reducing heavy-handed state regulation.
The “Uzbekistan-2030” Strategy:
The ongoing development of the “Uzbekistan-2030” Strategy builds upon earlier initiatives, with priorities that include:
- Individual Empowerment: Creating conditions for personal growth through educational reforms and poverty alleviation.
- Sustainable Economic Progress: Paving the way for enduring economic development.
- Environmental Conservation: Focusing on water conservation and environmental preservation.
- Effective Governance: Ensuring a responsive public administration and a reformed judicial system.
- A Peaceful Nation: A vision for Uzbekistan as a secure and peace-loving nation.
Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s presidency signifies a transformative era, not only for Uzbekistan but also on the global stage. His resolute commitment to reform and his vision for an empowered Uzbekistan underscore his dedication to enhancing the lives of Uzbek citizens and fostering sustainable regional development.Copy textCopy HTMLDoneRefuse