In recent days, debates and discussions about communication in the Uzbek language have been observed on social media. On this occasion, the Ministry of Justice reminded of some legislative documents in this field.
As noted, today, the primary document regulating the use of the Uzbek language as the state language is the law “On the State Language”. According to the law, the Republic of Uzbekistan's legislative documents, as well as other documents of state power and administrative bodies, are adopted and published in the state language. Translations of these documents can also be published in other languages.
The work in the state bodies and management organs is conducted in the state language, and translations into other languages are provided as necessary.
In enterprises, institutions, organizations, and public associations, documentation, accounting, statistics, and financial documents are kept in the state language. In teams where the majority of employees do not know the Uzbek language, it may also be conducted in other languages alongside the state language.
According to the law “On Advertising”, advertising in the territory of the Republic of Uzbekistan is distributed in the state language. In this case, the translation of the content of the advertisement into other languages can be repeated.
According to the law “On Protection of Consumers' Rights”, information about a product (work, service) is provided to the consumer in the state language. This information can also be provided in other languages additionally.
Furthermore, legislation does not specify strict and mandatory requirements regarding the language used in personal communication. Ensuring interethnic harmony and tolerance, respecting the uniqueness of each nationality and ethnic group is one of the key directions of state policy in Uzbekistan. Hereby, all citizens are provided with equal rights to speak their mother tongue, receive education, and develop cultural wealth.
Specifically, according to the law “On the State Language”, granting the state language status to the Uzbek language does not hinder the constitutional rights of the republic's inhabitants to use their mother tongue. Indeed, according to the Constitution, all citizens of the Republic of Uzbekistan have equal rights and freedoms regardless of gender, race, nationality, language, religion, creed, social origin, and status, and are equal before the law.
“Based on the above, when covering issues that may affect interethnic relations, it is appropriate to ensure compliance with the legislation of Uzbekistan, as well as universal and professional ethical standards.
At the same time, it is reminded that discrimination against citizens of Uzbekistan on the basis of language use, and inciting conflict on this basis, may lead to liability,” the report states.
