Uzbekistan needs a nuanced approach to balance state security with religious freedom and human rights.
Authors
Mohit Yadav, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Germany
Gaurav Pathak, Assistant Professor, Jindal Global Law School, O.P. Jindal Global University, Haryana, Sonipat, India
Summary
This article examines the ongoing conflict between state authority and Islamic practice in Uzbekistan, analysing the government’s efforts to balance concerns about radical interpretations of religion with constitutional guarantees of religious freedom. Despite reforms initiated under President Mirziyoyev aimed at liberalising religious policies, recent years have seen a resurgence of restrictive practices targeting Islamic expression. The article argues that while the government’s security concerns are not unfounded, overly restrictive policies risk alienating moderate believers and potentially fuelling the very religious radicalism they aim to prevent.
Drawing on recent developments and scholarly perspectives, the article explores the complex dynamics of the ‘Janus-state syndrome’ – a term derived from the Roman god Janus with two faces, describing how the state maintains two simultaneous but contradictory positions on religion, where Islam is simultaneously promoted as part of national identity. At the same time, certain interpretations of Islamic practices are viewed as potential threats to state security. The article concludes that addressing these challenges requires a more nuanced approach that aligns with international human rights standards while respecting Uzbekistan’s secular constitution and the religious aspirations of its citizens. It offers recommendations for policy reforms, emphasising the need for consistent implementation, expanded dialogue with religious communities, and deeper engagement with international human rights mechanisms to achieve a sustainable balance between state interests and religious freedoms.
Published in: Manchester Journal of Transnational Islamic Law and Practice
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