Informed today – Shaping tomorrow!

Titled "Empowering the Government and Citizens of Uzbekistan by Strengthening Access to Information, Accountability of Institutions, and Media Competence," this initiative is designed to strengthen the citizens' access to information, reinforce institutional accountability, and enhance media competence across various sectors. The programme will be conducted in partnership with the Agency of Information and Mass Communications under the Presidential Administration. 

A new Chapter in Media Development

This strategic collaboration follows Uzbekistan’s adoption of the new constitution on 30 April 2023, signaling a commitment to democratic reforms and the improvement of citizens' well-being. The new constitution underscores the need for effective implementation and robust mechanisms to address gaps in policy, institutions, and operations related to freedom of expression and access to information. The programme's primary focus areas include Media Legislation and Access to Information, Media Development, and Media & Information Literacy.

Media Legislation and Access to Information

In the realm of Media Legislation and Access to Information, the programme aims to continue efforts on refining the draft Information Code, ensuring it upholds principles of transparency, freedom expression, and access to information. This initiative includes an in-depth analysis on the use of Internet and access to information in Uzbekistan, consultations, and training sessions for governmental information providers, strengthening their capacity to respond effectively to information requests and manage public communication.

An extensive nationwide campaign through TV, radio, and social media will educate citizens on their right to access public information and the platforms available for this purpose. Additionally, an international conference will showcase Uzbekistan's progress in media legislation and access to information on a global stage.

Media Development

Under the umbrella of Media Development, the program will introduce new teaching and training materials for key institutions such as the Law Enforcement Academy, the Security Forces Academy, and the Judiciary Training Centre. These materials will enhance in-service education on freedom of expression and access to information, fostering a deeper understanding of these critical concepts among prosecutors, judicial actors, and security forces. Additionally, guidelines and a code of conduct will help to improve relationships between law enforcement officers and media professionals, and the adoption of a communication plan will ensure accountability and transparency of police institutions through effective communication with the public. 

The programme will also update the UNESCO module for journalism education in Uzbekistan, ensuring alignment with international standards and will train journalism educators to effectively use the new curricula. In a significant move towards supporting the next generation of media professionals, a pre-existing learning platform tailored for young journalists and bloggers is set to provide state-of-the-art educational resources covering a range of topics including data journalism, fake news, gender aspects in journalism, and legal literacy. This initiative is further enriched by a specialized workshop designed for emerging journalists and bloggers.

Media & Information Literacy

The final pillar, Media & Information Literacy, seeks to develop a comprehensive strategy for media and information literacy at all levels. Research assessments will identify gaps and provide recommendations for improving media and information literacy in Uzbekistan. Policymaker training sessions will equip decision-makers with the knowledge and skills to integrate media and information literacy into policy development, while national consultations and high-level dialogues will pave the way for a national strategy with the involvement of all relevant stakeholders.

This ambitious programme reflects the commitment of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and UNESCO to empower Uzbekistan's government and citizens by fostering a more transparent, accountable, and informed society.