Uzbekistan hosted the inaugural "Tashkent Global Media Forum" on September 10, focusing on anti-corruption measures, organized by the Anti-Corruption Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan and funded by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development ( BMZ).
This event is part of the "Improving Governance in Uzbekistan - Inclusive Corruption Prevention" project, implemented in collaboration with GIZ, the Central Finance and Contracts Agency (CFCA) of Latvia, Slovenia's NGO "Regional Dialogue," and UNDP. The initiative follows a proposal from the president of Uzbekistan, introduced during the ceremony for the prestigious High International Prize for Anti-Corruption.
The forum drew an impressive audience, including journalists and editors from Latvia, Singapore, the Philippines, Austria, and Central Asia, alongside bloggers and other media professionals. Additionally, representatives from OSCE, UNDP, the international NGO "Regional Dialogue," GIZ experts, the diplomatic corps, international organizations, government ministries, and civil society institutions were present.
The primary aim of the forum was to enhance the media's role in the fight against corruption. Discussions centered on global and local challenges, the development of joint initiatives to enhance transparency and accountability, and the strengthening of media, public bodies, and NGOs collaboration. The forum also sought to support freedom of speech and protect journalists while creating a robust platform for discourse.
Dr. Michael Wimmer, Deputy Head of Mission and Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy in Uzbekistan, emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Anti-Corruption Agency of Uzbekistan in supporting anti-corruption reforms. He highlighted the project "Improving Governance in Uzbekistan – Inclusive Corruption Prevention," co-funded by the EU and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Led by GIZ, the project aims to enhance integrity in public institutions and promote zero tolerance for corruption.
"Effectively addressing corruption relies on an informed and engaged public, which is supported by a media landscape that operates responsibly and independently," Wimmer noted.
A key focus is building the capacity of media professionals, civil society, and activists to investigate and report on corruption.
The event commenced with a plenary session highlighting the comprehensive anti-corruption reforms led by the President of Uzbekistan. Presentations covered the policy of irreversible transparency and the tangible results of these efforts. The forum emphasizes the importance of uniting media representatives, government officials, and civil society in combating corruption and fostering international cooperation.
Subsequent sessions delved into critical topics, including the achievements and potential of modern media in anti-corruption efforts, existing challenges, and innovative strategies. Key discussions included:
- The Role of Mass Media in Ensuring Openness and Transparency of Government Agencies: Prominent experts from Transparency International DELNA/Latvia and Singapore's Center for Mutual Cooperation and Support for Open Government shared insights on raising public awareness, enhancing legal awareness, and supporting community oversight.
- Information Ethics: Challenges and Solutions for Modern Media: This session focused on ethics, standards in anti-corruption journalism, and strategies for identifying corruption cases. Thematic presentations were made by experts from UNDP and the Baltic Center for Media Excellence (BCME).
- Prospects for Analytical and Investigative Journalism: Representatives from the Philippine Journalism Research Center and Delfi.lv presented on the media's role in anti-corruption, the protection of journalists, and the legal and institutional framework of journalism. Discussions also covered international cooperation and media support for anti-corruption reforms in Uzbekistan.
The forum concluded with the development of new approaches and strategies to enhance journalists' skills in covering anti-corruption issues. Participants agreed on the establishment of a permanent platform for ongoing information exchange and experience sharing.
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