On 30 April 2023, Uzbekistan adopted by referendum the new edition of the Constitution, which introduces articles directly related to changes in the Parliament's election system. Starting from 2024, Uzbekistan plans to implement proportional representation for 50% of the seats in the Legislative Chamber (Lower Chamber) of the Oliy Majlis. This presents a unique opportunity for persons with disabilities to pursue deputy positions and strive for the 75 available seats.
As a result, from 5 to 7 July, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan in collaboration with the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Association of Disabled People of Uzbekistan organized a training course on enhancing negotiation skills. This marks the first phase of a series of capacity-building training courses for representatives of disability-focused NGOs who aspire to participate in Uzbekistan's 2024 parliamentary elections.
A total of 35 representatives (15 women, 20 men) from across different regions of Uzbekistan, including the Republic of Karakalpakstan, attended the training event. Participants acquired practical techniques on how to conduct successful negotiations. The second phase of the training will take place in August 2023 and will complement negotiation techniques with public speaking skills.
In his remarks, Ambassador Clemens Koja, OSCE Acting Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, regarded proportional representation as an opportunity for persons with disabilities to pursue deputy positions in the Legislative Chamber of the Parliament, and encouraged them to "seize the moment and work together to create a political landscape that truly reflects the diverse voices of the people of Uzbekistan."
