The United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) is the only legally binding universal anti-corruption instrument. Its far-reaching approach and mandatory provisions make it a unique tool for addressing the global challenge of corruption.
Uzbekistan joined UNCAC in 2008 and participates in its Implementation Review Mechanism (IRM). In 2016, Uzbekistan was reviewed in the First Cycle, which focused on criminalization and international cooperation. Currently, the Second Review Cycle is ongoing, emphasizing corruption prevention and asset recovery measures.
The Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities (the GlobE Network) was established in 2021 and is open to anti-corruption law enforcement authorities of all UN Member States and State Parties to UNCAC. The Network is governed by its members and is supported by the United Nations Office against Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which provides the Network’s secretariat. Uzbekistan joined the Network in 2023.
To support the country in these efforts, UNODC, in collaboration with the Anti-Corruption Agency of Uzbekistan, organized a two-day capacity-building workshop in Tashkent on 29-30 January 2025. The seminar gathered 38 participants – members of the UNCAC IRM Working Groups of experts from the Anti-Corruption Agency, General Prosecutor's Office, Supreme Court, Ministry of Justice, Tax Committee, Law Enforcement Academy, universities and other public bodies.
Highlights of the Seminar
On Day 1, participants were introduced to the methodology and tools of the UNCAC IRM, including the Comprehensive Self-Assessment Checklist, which plays a critical role in identifying gaps, gathering evidence, and formulating responses to UNCAC’s provisions. The day concluded with an exploration of articles from Chapters II (Preventive Measures) and V (Asset Recovery) of the Convention.
Mr. Hudayberdi Tursunbekov, Head of the Scientific and Educational Center for Combating Corruption at the Law Enforcement Academy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, emphasized:
“Our Center plays a crucial role in aligning national legislation with the international standards outlined in the UNCAC. This seminar will enhance the effective application of international instruments in national practices and increase the capabilities of the Center's staff.”
Day 2 focused on developing practical skills in completing the Self-Assessment Check List and providing relevant explanations on the extent to which each UNCAC provision had been implemented in Uzbekistan’s national legislation.
Participants were also introduced to the resources offered by the GlobE Network for anti-corruption practitioners, and discussed their practical applicability in their daily work on investigating corruption offences, fostering international cooperation and strengthening their knowledge and capacity.
Mr. Izzat Achilov, Prosecutor of the Department for Coordination of Measures in Countering Corruption at the General Prosecutor's Office of the Republic of Uzbekistan, emphasized:
“The UN Convention against Corruption establishes international anti-corruption standards, and the review mechanism allows us to assess how effectively our country fulfils these obligations. One of the topics of the workshop was the improvement of criminal legislation. Special attention was given to the liability of legal persons for corruption offences, as well as the criminalization of promising and soliciting bribe. These are important elements of anti-corruption policy, as they enable the prevention of offences at the intent stage. The knowledge gained will allow us to improve anti-corruption mechanisms in Uzbekistan, including adapting best practices in the areas of investigation, prosecution and protection of the rights of entrepreneurs.”
Summarizing the outcomes of the seminar, Mr. Vladimir Kozin, the UNODC Regional Anti-Corruption Adviser, stated:
“The workshop underscores UNODC's dedication to supporting Uzbekistan in enhancing its capacity to implement UNCAC provisions effectively and participate in the activities of the GlobE Network. This initiative aligns with the Regional Platform for Fast-Tracking the Implementation of UNCAC in Central Asia.”
This workshop was supported within the framework of the Riyadh Initiative for Enhancing International Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Cooperation.
For further information, contact:
Mr. Azat Irmanov
National Programme Officer
📧 Email: azat.irmanov@un.org
📞 Tel: +998 78 120 80 50
