Human Rights Watch has sharply criticized the recent EU-Uzbekistan Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, highlighting significant concerns about Uzbekistan’s ongoing human rights infractions. While the agreement underscores respect for democratic principles, it inadequately addresses the nation’s worsening human rights situation, according to HRW’s Europe and Central Asia advocacy director, Iskra Kirova.
The EU’s decision to finalize this agreement without demanding concrete reforms to facilitate the work of independent civic organizations and media professionals raises serious questions. According to Kirova, this move overlooks an opportunity to encourage meaningful change. In Uzbekistan, authorities persistently undermine fundamental human rights by suppressing freedom of expression and prosecuting activists and bloggers on vague political charges, such as accusations of “insulting the president online.” Moreover, the operation of non-governmental organizations remains heavily constrained under stringent state oversight, presenting significant challenges in registration and public policy advocacy.
Recently, security forces have also been accused of using excessive force to suppress peaceful demonstrations in regions like Karakalpakstan. These actions resulted in numerous deaths and injuries, violating freedoms of expression and assembly, which are enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. An emblematic case involved Uzbek lawyer Dauletmurat Tajimuratov, who received a 16-year sentence for engaging in peaceful protests and experienced alleged torture during detention. These claims are denied by authorities, but the international community, including the UK, US, and the EU, has called for an independent investigation.
Despite efforts by the Uzbek government to eradicate forced labor in its cotton industry, other forced labor instances and association restrictions persist for agricultural workers. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s recent visit to Brussels for the agreement signing raises further questions about the balance between economic interests and human rights. This engagement forms part of a broader initiative following the EU-Central Asia summit in April 2025, which critics argue prioritizes economic benefits over essential human rights commitments.
The ongoing dialogue between the EU and Uzbekistan reflects an intricate balancing act between fostering economic ties and addressing fundamental human rights issues. For more detailed analysis and context on this issue, Human Rights Watch provides an extensive overview here.