THE “BROKEN WINDOWS THEORY” IN CRIMINAL LAW AND CRIMINOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE: PROSPECTS FOR IMPLEMENTATION IN THE REPUBLIC OF UZBEKISTAN

Аннотация

This article analyzes the Broken Windows Theory as a key tool for crime prevention. The concept, proposed by Wilson and Kelling, is based on the assumption that neglecting minor offenses and signs of social decay leads to an increase in more serious crimes. The study examines international examples of the theory’s implementation and assesses its applicability in Uzbekistan based on law enforcement data. Particular attention is given to recent criminological reforms, including Presidential Decree No. 35 (2024) of the Republic of Uzbekistan, which established the Criminology Center to develop scientifically grounded methods for combating crime. An analysis of official statistics from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the General Prosecutor’s Office of Uzbekistan demonstrates that measures aimed at improving urban environments, maintaining public order, and preventing minor offenses positively impact crime reduction. The findings confirm that a crimeprevention strategy focused on maintaining social order and eliminating factors of social degradation can be effective in Uzbekistan, as previously demonstrated in other countries.