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EXPERT MEETING ON REPATRIATION OF ILLICIT FUNDS: A CALL FOR ACTION IN UZBEKISTAN

Updated: 3 days ago

Justice pour Tous Internationale participated in the Expert Meeting at the Palais des Nations in Geneva on 13 February 2023, addressing current obstacles to repatriate illicit funds and their impact on human rights. The association raised concerns about the challenges faced by political activists and human rights defenders in Uzbekistan, including police intimidation and arbitrary detention, as highlighted in UN Special Rapporteurs’ observations. It proposed reforms for Uzbekistan, including liberalising political party registration, adopting equality legislation, modernising the police with human rights focus, strengthening judicial independence, and supporting anti-corruption efforts. The emphasis should be placed on fostering inclusive societies and accountable institutions in line with the SDGs, advocating for sustainable reform in Uzbekistan.


Today, we are honored to participate in the pivotal Expert Meeting on the obstacles to repatriation of funds of illicit origin to the countries of origin and their impact on the enjoyment of human rights, hosted at the prestigious Palais des Nations in Geneva.


In this gathering, we aim to address critical concerns that have emerged from our continuous advocacy for human rights and legal reform in Uzbekistan. Our intervention, backed by observations from UN Special Rapporteurs (AL UZB 3/2023), underscores the pressing challenges faced by political activists and human rights defenders in Uzbekistan, including police intimidation and unwarranted detention. These issues highlight an urgent need for a more protective environment for human rights and the rule of law within the country.


Furthermore, we will advocate for a strategic reevaluation of the Swiss Development Cooperation’s approach to the Uzbekistan Vision SDGs 2030 Fund, emphasizing the importance of fostering inclusive societies and building accountable, strong institutions as outlined in Goal 16.


OUR PROPOSED MULTI-FACETED APPROACH FOR IMMEDIATE AND LONG-TERM REFORMS IN UZBEKISTAN INCLUDES:

• Liberalizing political party registration requirements;

• Adopting comprehensive equality legislation inspired by models from Western European nations;

• Modernizing the police force with an emphasis on human rights principles;

• Continuing to strengthen the independence of the judiciary and lawyers;

• Supporting local civil society in advocating for enhanced anti-corruption laws and practices.


Addressed to Mr. Jonas Astrup, Head of the Uzbekistan Vision 2030 Fund, and Ms. Andrea Iff, Policy Advisor for Asset Recovery and Deputy Head of the Peace, Governance, and Equality Section at the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), our statement reflects a commitment to constructive dialogue and the pursuit of sustainable solutions that honor the rights and aspirations of the Uzbek people.


We look forward to engaging with international partners, policymakers, and civil society actors to discuss these vital issues and explore avenues for impactful reform.

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