Publication

This paper argues that many Central Asian watchers expected Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to continue on the policies of his predecessor, President Islam Karimov. Under Karimov, the nation became isolated, withdrawing from or refusing to participate in regional organizations, and served as a counter-model to human rights in the world. The text’s author explains that Mirziyoyev’s first year in office, following his appointment in 2016, did not bring about any surprises. However, the President’s second year witnessed a marked change, with rapid improvements in Uzbekistan’s domestic, regional and international spheres.