Since taking power in 2016, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has brought considerable positive change to his country, promoting regional cooperation, improving media freedom, and much more. But the government’s response to the recent violent upheaval in Karakalpakstan may be the most promising development yet.
BISHKEK – Earlier this summer, protests erupted in Uzbekistan’s autonomous Republic of Karakalpakstan after the government announced plans to strip the region of its constitutional status. Viewing the move as a blow to their identity, the people of Karakalpakstan, especially ethnic Karakalpaks, took to the streets and clashed with the police and security forces, leaving 18 dead and 243 injured, including 38 law-enforcement officers.
BISHKEK – Earlier this summer, protests erupted in Uzbekistan’s autonomous Republic of Karakalpakstan after the government announced plans to strip the region of its constitutional status. Viewing the move as a blow to their identity, the people of Karakalpakstan, especially ethnic Karakalpaks, took to the streets and clashed with the police and security forces, leaving 18 dead and 243 injured, including 38 law-enforcement officers.