Religious tolerance in Uzbekistan is an important element of state policy and public life, especially in the context of the multi-ethnic and multi-confessional composition of the population of our country. The State in our country is separate from religious organizations, and all religious associations are equal before the law.
In recent years, the country has continued to liberalize the religious sphere. For example, the Centre for Islamic Civilization and the Imam Bukhari International Research Centre have been established in Uzbekistan. These and other measures have helped to improve the country's image and to recognize progress in the area of religious freedom.
Today Uzbek society as a whole is characterized by a high degree of religious tolerance. Representatives of various faiths, including Muslims, Christians, Jews, and others, coexist peacefully and engage in interreligious dialogue. Mosques, churches, synagogues, and other religious institutions operate in the country, allowing believers to practice their religion freely.
This also applies fully to Catholics, of whom there are some 3,500 in Uzbekistan. The Catholic community is represented by several parishes, for example in Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, etc., organized under the Apostolic Administration of Uzbekistan. Today it is actively involved in interfaith dialogue and social activities, despite its small number. Services are conducted in several languages, including English, Korean, Russian and Polish, reflecting the international composition of the congregation.
The recent election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prévost to the papal throne was also an important event for Catholics in our country. In my opinion, the choice of the name Leo XIV symbolically refers to Pope Leo XIII, known for his social doctrine and support for workers. Thus, a signal is given that the course on social justice and reforms initiated by his predecessors will be continued.
It is needed to be noted that Uzbekistan in its foreign policy advocates strengthening interfaith dialogue and humanitarian cooperation. Experts in Uzbekistan highly appreciate the Vatican's contribution to promoting the ideas of goodness and mercy, as well as support for the needy around the world. Thus, we can note with full confidence that relations between Uzbekistan and the Vatican will continue to develop on the basis of mutual respect and desire for dialogue.
* The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.
