GENOCIDE        WATCH

Since the death of President Islam Karimov in 2016 there has been much hope for reform of human rights in the country. Current President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has taken some steps towards improving human rights, but the system remains authoritarian. Issues surrounding freedom of assembly, freedom of expression and freedom of religion persist. Restrictions are placed on religious practice and discrimination exists against non-Muslim minorities, some of whom are subject to fines or jail time for their activities. The state is particularly repressive of Shia Muslims and other Muslims that do not conform to the state-mandated version Islam. Discrimination and violence against LGBTQI+ people and women also exists.