On July 29, 2025, a significant meeting took place in Tashkent between the Ombudsman of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Feruza Eshmatova, and the delegation led by the Ombudsman of the Russian Federation, Tatiana Moskalkova. This was reported by Upl.uz.
This dialogue was assessed as an important step aimed at developing bilateral cooperation and strengthening the protection of citizens' rights and freedoms. During the meeting, the parties discussed a wide range of issues related to strengthening cooperation.
The main focus was on urgent areas such as the prompt consideration of citizens' appeals, identifying and preventing torture, ensuring human rights in penal institutions, creating suitable conditions for persons with disabilities, and protecting the rights of labor migrants. Feruza Eshmatova provided detailed information to her Russian counterparts about the systemic reforms being implemented in Uzbekistan in the field of human rights.
The legal foundations of the Ombudsman institution were emphasized as being strengthened, and it is being formed as an effective, independent, and citizen-oriented body. It was also noted that the expansion of the Ombudsman's activities, the introduction of electronic platforms and mobile applications significantly enhance the speed and capabilities of protecting human rights, contributing to the strengthening of the institution's reputation at both national and international levels.
The foundations of cooperation between the Ombudsmen of Uzbekistan and Russia were reinforced by a cooperation memorandum signed in 2019. Since then, representatives of Uzbekistan have regularly organized working visits to Russia, closely collaborating with the Russian Ombudsman to study the appeals of their compatriots and provide practical assistance to citizens in penal institutions.
During the current meeting, the successful experience of jointly considering the appeals of citizens from both countries was particularly highlighted. In the second quarter of 2025, the Ombudsman of Uzbekistan received a total of 87 appeals from foreign Ombudsmen and citizens, of which 38 were related to the Russian Federation.
Seven appeals were sent to the Russian Ombudsman regarding the protection of the interests of citizens living in Uzbekistan. The successful resolution of most appeals demonstrates the effectiveness of bilateral cooperation.
Cooperation between the Ombudsman institutions is of great importance in addressing many issues faced by our compatriots. At the end of the meeting, the parties expressed their readiness to continue active dialogue and expand practical cooperation.
It was planned to exchange experiences in the field of legal protection, organize joint educational programs, and deepen cooperation on specific issues. This will not only allow for the effective resolution of existing problems but also create new mechanisms for protecting citizens' rights and interests in the rapidly changing global environment.
Press service of the Ombudsman of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
