Uzbekistan’s Silk Mirage: Analyzing the State of Freedom of Speech…

Joanna Lillis’s book “Silk Mirage” critiques the state of freedom of speech in Uzbekistan under Shavkat Mirziyoev, revealing a disillusionment with initial reforms. The chapter “Red Lines” highlights the struggles of journalists like Anora Sodiqova against government suppression. Despite early optimism, recent crackdowns on media freedoms suggest a reversion to oppressive tactics reminiscent of the Karimov era. Lillis aims to document both the progress made and the urgent need for continued reform.

In the context of Uzbekistan’s evolving landscape, Joanna Lillis’s forthcoming book, “Silk Mirage: Through The Looking Glass In Uzbekistan,” reflects the complexity surrounding freedom of speech under President Shavkat Mirziyoev. While Mirziyoev initially appeared to reverse some authoritarian trends established by Islam Karimov, as shown in a chapter previewed by RFE/RL, the optimism seen during the early years of his presidency is waning. Lillis, with over two decades of regional experience, documents the gradual decline of this hope.

The chapter titled “Red Lines” illustrates the challenges faced by journalists, such as Anora Sodiqova, who previously led a small newspaper addressing social issues. Under Karimov, reporting on political matters could lead to jail time, forcing journalists to exercise caution. Sodiqova’s attempts to report on the aftermath of the Sardoba dam disaster revealed a concerted effort by local authorities to suppress negative information, contradicting Mirziyoev’s public commitments to media accountability. After exposing these barriers, she was relieved of her duties and eventually lost control of her outlet, Rost 24, due to external pressures.

Lillis highlights disillusionment among journalists and bloggers regarding the current state of media freedom. Though the Mirziyoev era began with a notable decrease in political imprisonments, the arrest of blogger Otabek Sattoriy in 2021 marked a troubling shift toward repression. New laws restricting speech have compounded these issues, making the already fragile environment even more perilous.

Lillis’s work, the first English language account of post-Karimov Uzbekistan, contrasts with a recent Polish publication that failed to access the country. This highlights the ongoing challenges for foreign journalists, including Lillis herself, who has seen her accreditation lapse without renewal.

Distinct characteristics set Uzbekistan apart from its neighbor, Kazakhstan, especially regarding their founding presidents’ leadership styles. While Kazakhstan’s Nursultan Nazarbaev allowed some political dissent, Karimov’s presidency was marked by hostility toward outside influences. Furthermore, the role of Islam in Uzbekistan’s society contributed to Karimov’s oppressive regime, as concerns about extremism fueled a culture of fear and repression.

Despite initial support for dissenting voices in Mirziyoev’s government, the environment for both secular and religious bloggers has become precarious. Lillis concludes that any genuine freedom of expression poses risks to authoritarian regimes, suggesting that Uzbekistan’s regression in certain liberties is an expected response. Her book portrays the delicate balance of acknowledging both the progress made since Karimov and the importance of continuing reform efforts.

Joanna Lillis’s “Silk Mirage” explores the nuanced state of freedom of speech in Uzbekistan under Shavkat Mirziyoev. While initial reforms suggested a thaw in authoritarianism, recent developments reveal a worrying trend back toward repression, particularly for critical journalists and bloggers. The contrast between the leadership styles of Karimov and Mirziyoev, as well as the impact of Islam in societal dynamics, informs this examination. Ultimately, Lillis hopes her book underscores the necessity of ongoing reforms in the face of enduring challenges.

Original Source: www.rferl.org