This article analyzes the political and legal aspects of the elections to the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan and local councils, scheduled for October 27, 2024

Аннотация

This article analyzes the political and legal aspects of the elections to the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan and local councils, scheduled for October 27, 2024. The study examines the evolution of Uzbekistan's electoral system, the changes implemented within the framework of the 2023 constitutional reforms, and the effectiveness of the mixed electoral system. Additionally, it discusses the role of political parties in the elections, election campaigns, the involvement of international observers, and the compliance of the electoral process with international standards. The article compares Uzbekistan's electoral system with the practices of other countries, highlighting the social and economic impact of the elections and their contribution to strengthening democratic institutions. The research provides an analytical approach to the significance of ongoing reforms in Uzbekistan's political system and underscores the importance of these elections for the future of the country. Key words: Uzbekistan electoral system, mixed electoral system, constitutional reforms, political parties, international observers, democratic processes. History of the Electoral System and Reforms in the Republic of Uzbekistan After gaining independence, the Republic of Uzbekistan carried out a series of important changes in its political system, one of which was the formation and reform of the electoral system. Through elections, citizens form representative bodies of state power, which is one of the main components of democratic governance. Early Years of the Electoral System In the initial years, Uzbekistan's electoral system operated based on elements inherited from the former Soviet Union. The first presidential election, held on December 29, 1991, was one of the most important political events following the country's independence. In this election, Islam Karimov was elected as the first president of Uzbekistan. The first elections to the Oliy Majlis (parliament) were held in 1994. During this period, the electoral system functioned within a multi-party system but under an authoritarian regime. Reforms in the 2000s Starting in the 2000s, Uzbekistan undertook several measures to reform its electoral system. In 2002, a new law was introduced, establishing the Electoral Code, which created a legal basis for more open and transparent elections. Additionally, during this period, the number of political parties increased, and changes were made to the legislation to strengthen the activities of parties eligible to participate in elections. The 2008 Reforms In 2008, changes were made to the system for electing deputies to the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis. These reforms introduced a mixed electoral system, in which part of the deputies were elected through a majoritarian system and part through a proportional 28 ILM-FAN VA INNOVATSIYA ILMIY-AMALIY KONFERENSIYASI in-academy.uz/index.php/si system. This system was designed to ensure diversity and balance in the election of deputies to the Oliy Majlis. The 2019 Elections and Renewed Political Processes The 2019 elections to the Oliy Majlis marked the beginning of changes in state governance and the liberalization of the political system. In this election, new-generation political parties and candidates actively participated. International observers, including those from OSCE/ODIHR, noted an increase in the transparency of the elections, although some issues remained. After Shavkat Mirziyoyev was elected president, he focused on accelerating reforms in the political system. The 2023 Constitutional Amendments The constitutional amendments introduced in 2023 marked a turning point in Uzbekistan’s electoral system. These changes were aimed at further democratizing the electoral process, increasing the role of parliament, and expanding citizens' electoral rights. In particular:  Expansion of the powers of the Oliy Majlis – Strengthening the role of parliament in governance, increasing its influence over the state.  Development of the mixed electoral system – Enhancing the balance between majoritarian and proportional systems to strengthen multiparty representation and ensure broader citizen participation. Impact of the 2023 Constitutional Amendments on the Electoral System The amendments to the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan introduced in 2023 significantly influenced the country's political and legal system. These changes aimed to further democratize the electoral process, increase transparency, and enhance the impact of citizens on representative bodies. The constitutional reforms encompassed all branches of state power, including the election process, introducing new rules for electing deputies to the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and local councils. The main aspects of these reforms include: 1. Expansion of the powers of the Oliy Majlis: The amendments extended the powers of the Oliy Majlis. As the highest legislative body o