Openess of state bodies considered in Kashkadarya region

Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan and Friedrich Ebert Foundation (Germany) in Central Asia, as well as Administration of Kashkadarya region organized the event, which was attended by representatives of ministries, scientific and educational institutions, international and local experts, etc.

The seminar was aimed at discussing issues of ensuring openness of the state bodies and administration, developing proposals on improving legislation in this area.

It was stated that Uzbekistan created legislative base on boosting information sphere, introduction of new technologies, development of mass media, etc.

Uzbekistan adopted laws “On principles and guarantees of information freedom”, “On guarantees and free access to information” and others. The laws ensures right of citizens and mass media to search, receives, transfer and publish information. The several laws were amended to strengthen liabilities of the officials for violation of legislation in the sphere of information access.

The participants analyzed a draft law “On openness of the activities of the state bodies and administration”. They noted that it meets requirements of the Constitution of Uzbekistan and legislation, as well as international norms.

The document sets procedures on information public on activities of the state bodies, access to information and decisions of the state bodies. It was said that the law will strengthen liabilities of the state bodies in decision-making.

The law also stipulates use of modern information-communication technologies, including websites of the state bodies, in providing information to population and mass media.

The draft law also envisages measures on publication of transcripts of open session of their sessions at their websites or mass media, as well as schedule of such meetings.

It also regulates issues on providing information on demand to citizens. The state bodies should provide information to media on their request or organize interview within five days.

During the seminar, the participants considered experience of Germany in providing access to governmental, parliamentary and judicial information. It was said that mass media play key role in informing public on activities of the state bodies.

The participants shared their proposals and recommendations on implementation of effective methods of informing public on activities and decision-making process at the state bodies and administrations.