UZBEKISTAN’S EXPERIENCE – A MODEL FOR THE REGION

Within the framework of the “Fourth Movarounnahr Summer Seminars” organized by the Institute of Islamic Thought in Turkey, scholarly and intellectual dialogues are taking place with the participation of academics and researchers from nine countries. Representing Uzbekistan, Qodirkhon Mahmudov, a scholar from the Imam Bukhari International Scientific-Research Center, is attending the seminars alongside seven other Uzbek researchers.

As part of the academic program, a specialized seminar entitled “Religion and Religious Education in Uzbekistan” was convened. The discussion centered on recent reforms undertaken in the religious sphere in Uzbekistan, with particular emphasis on the principles of freedom of conscience, religious tolerance, and the evolving relationship between the state and religious denominations.

The seminar further addressed the expansion of Islamic educational institutions, noting their development in line with contemporary infrastructural standards and the increasing opportunities available for youth engagement. Special attention was given to the scholarly and educational activities of the international scientific research centers named after Imam Bukhari, Imam Termizi, and Imam Maturidi, as well as the Center for Islamic Civilization. Their contributions in the fields of translation, publication, and spiritual-enlightenment work were highlighted as significant components of Uzbekistan’s broader efforts to promote religious literacy and intercultural understanding.

At the conclusion of the seminar, Professor Mehmet Görmez, Director of the Institute of Islamic Thought, expressed his appreciation for the progress made in Uzbekistan regarding religious freedoms, the restoration of historical heritage, and the country’s growing recognition on the international stage as the homeland of great Islamic scholars.

Professor Bünyamin Erol also praised Uzbekistan’s reforms in the religious and educational spheres, emphasizing that the country’s experience is becoming a distinctive model for the broader region.

Such international dialogues contribute to further enhancing Uzbekistan’s standing in the fields of religion, scholarship, and spiritual culture.

Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center
Press service