Uzbekistan Senate approves changes to Latin alphabet

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan’s senators approved at the 19th plenary session the Law “On Amendments to the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan ‘On the Introduction of the Uzbek Alphabet Based on Latin Script.’”

The document provides for changes to the composition of the Uzbek Latin-based alphabet. Under the amendments, the alphabet will include 28 letters and one apostrophe instead of the 26 letters and three letter combinations предусмотренные by the current version.

During the discussion, senators noted that Uzbekistan has taken systematic measures in recent years to develop the Uzbek language and strengthen its status as the state language. At the same time, the international standing of the Uzbek language continues to grow, they said.

The bill also provides for transitional provisions designed to take into account the rights and interests of citizens and organizations. Before the law enters into force, documents, the national currency and securities issued under the current alphabet may continue to be used.

In addition, certain symbolic signs of state bodies and organizations, as well as signs and information boards, may be retained until they become unfit for use or until the end of the established period.

According to the senators, adoption of the law is aimed at improving the Uzbek Latin-based alphabet and spelling rules. The changes are also expected to expand opportunities for using the state language and contribute to further digitalization of the Uzbek language.

Following the discussion, the law was approved by the Senate.