Uzbek Lawmakers Approve Latin Alphabet Reform

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — The Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis has reviewed and adopted the draft law "On Amending the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan 'On the Introduction of the Uzbek Alphabet Based on the Latin Script,'" which provides for the improvement of the Uzbek alphabet and orthography rules.

During the discussion, it was noted that in recent years, Uzbekistan has paid special attention to the development of the Uzbek language and the strengthening of its status as the state language. It was emphasized that the scope of application of the Uzbek language is consistently expanding both within the country and internationally, while interest in studying it continues to grow.

In this regard, the developers of the bill proposed to improve the alphabet based on the Latin script, taking into account the results of scientific research. According to the document, instead of the current 26 letters and three letter combinations, the Uzbek alphabet will consist of 28 letters and one apostrophe sign. In addition, the procedure for using individual letters is clarified.

During the review, deputies made a number of proposals aimed at the gradual implementation of the new norms. In particular, it is planned to preserve the legal validity of documents, national currency, and securities issued before the law enters into force. It is also proposed to maintain the possibility of using official symbolism, signs, signboards, and other attributes of state bodies and organizations until a specified deadline.

As noted during the discussion, this approach will avoid the simultaneous replacement of documents, forms, signs, and other physical information media, prevent unjustified expenditures from the state budget, and ensure a financially acceptable transition to the updated alphabet.

According to the deputies, the adoption of the bill will contribute to the further improvement of the Uzbek alphabet based on the Latin script and spelling rules, as well as expand the possibilities for using the state language and its digitalization.

Following the review, the deputies adopted the draft law and sent it to the Senate.