The European Union takes note of the preliminary assessment of the OSCE Election Observation Mission following the parliamentary elections in Uzbekistan on 27 October.

Their assessment concludes that while the electoral framework has gradually evolved, and elections were technically well-prepared, the political environment remained constrained, not providing voters with a genuine choice.

The EU welcomes the progress achieved during these elections under the revised legal framework, in particular the efforts to facilitate voting of the person with disabilities and the fact that a minimum of 40 % of seats in the new parliament will now be held by women, and congratulates the Uzbek authorities for the technical standards achieved during these elections.

The EU notes, however, also the persisting shortcomings, namely that only parties formally approved by the government were authorised to nominate their candidates, which led to the absence of opposition parties from the contest. The EU also took note of the OSCE’s finding of numerous cases of identified violations, malfeasance and procedural and technical problems on Election Day and disrespect of safeguards challenging the integrity of the process and undermining transparency.

The EU considers that there is a need for further investment in the democratic process in Uzbekistan before elections can truly be described as fair and free. Future parliamentary elections should be open to independent candidates. Creating and defending a space for meaningful public debate, including for opposition voices, to establish a sustainable environment in which reforms can be implemented, is crucial and brings real benefits for the country and its people.

The EU remains committed to support Uzbekistan in its endeavour to carry out democratic reforms and, in particular, to fully implement the recommendations of this and previous OSCE/ODIHR Election Observation Missions.