History of The Development of Mass Media in Uzbekistan and Their Current Legal Status
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17605/cajssh.v6i3.1198Keywords:
Mass media, television, radio, newsreels, programs, newspapers, magazines, press, law, documentary films, telecommunicationsAbstract
Mass media play a pivotal role in the dissemination of information and the formation of public opinion in every society. In Uzbekistan, the evolution of mass communication has reflected the broader sociopolitical transformations, from early print publications to modern digital broadcasting platforms. The development of television and radio in Uzbekistan—from early experimental transmissions in the 1920s to the establishment of major telecommunication infrastructures—illustrates both technological innovation and state policy direction. Despite the historical richness and recent liberalization in Uzbekistan’s media landscape, comprehensive scholarly reviews connecting the technological evolution, legal frameworks, and current institutional reforms remain limited. This article aims to chronologically trace the development of mass media in Uzbekistan, with a focus on television, and to analyze its current legal foundations within the national and international legal contexts. The study reveals significant progress in the diversification and independence of media outlets. As of the latest assessments, over 50% of TV channels and 85% of radio stations in Uzbekistan are now non-state entities. The legal foundations, such as the laws “On Mass Media” and “On the Protection of Journalistic Activities,” demonstrate alignment with international norms like Article 19 of the UN Declaration of Human Rights. The article combines historical data with legal analysis, offering a unique interdisciplinary perspective on media development in Uzbekistan. The findings underscore the importance of further reinforcing journalistic freedom and continuing media liberalization while safeguarding against abuse, thereby strengthening Uzbekistan’s democratic institutions and civic participation through transparent information channels.
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