Uzbekistan is stepping up efforts to promote transparency and ethical business practices, hosting the International Business Ombudsmen and the 4th Business Integrity Forum in Tashkent as part of Anti-Corruption Week from October 21 to 23.
The event, held at Hilton Tashkent City, was organized by the Office of the Business Ombudsman under the President of Uzbekistan and the Anti-Corruption Agency, with support from the OECD, OSCE, Konrad Adenauer Foundation, UNODC, and other international organizations.
The forum gathered senior officials, business leaders, and representatives of international organizations and civil society to discuss how Business Ombudsmen can strengthen the protection of entrepreneurs’ rights and improve the investment climate.
Discussions focused on global practices and institutional mechanisms to enhance business integrity and reduce corruption risks. Participants emphasized the need for transparent regulation, effective protection of business rights, and predictable state policies that support private sector growth.
A dedicated session explored practical channels for companies to report violations of their legal rights by public officials, including corruption-related cases. Speakers called for stronger institutional accountability, fewer administrative barriers, and clearer procedures to prevent abuse of authority in business–government interactions.
“Around the world, the institution of the Business Ombudsman plays an important role in resolving systemic challenges faced by entrepreneurs and ensuring targeted solutions for the private sector,” said Jamshid Urunov, Deputy Business Ombudsman of Uzbekistan.
Another session addressed anti-corruption compliance within organizations, stressing that formal policies must translate into concrete action. Participants highlighted the importance of risk assessments, internal control systems, and the integration of corporate ethics into business operations.
Promoting a culture of integrity was also a key theme. Experts noted that transparency and responsible business conduct not only strengthen trust and competitiveness but also contribute to sustainable economic growth.
“Our goal is to integrate accountability and preventive measures in the fight against corruption, expand fair compliance systems for all enterprises, and make integrity a true competitive advantage in Uzbekistan’s market,” said Akiko Fujii, UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan.
The event concluded with a ceremony marking new company accessions to the Uzbekistan Business Anti-Corruption Charter, a national platform uniting businesses committed to fair competition, transparency, and ethical conduct.
