Alisher Kadyrov, chairman of the National Revival Democratic Party ( Milliy Tiklanish) and member of Uzbekistan’s Legislative Chamber, has demanded that those responsible for organizing and approving a beer festival in the capital be held accountable, citing violations of national advertising laws and disrespect for cultural values.
The festival, which took place on Taras Shevchenko street from June 27 to 29, has sparked public and political backlash. Critics argue that the event contradicts Uzbekistan’s laws regulating the promotion of alcohol and undermines traditional values.
In a statement shared on his Telegram channel, Kadyrov referred to the country’s law on advertising, which bans the advertising and sponsorship of alcoholic beverages using brand names, logos, or imagery.
“Those who organized and allowed this festival to be held should be held accountable,” he wrote.
Feruza Mukhamedjonova, deputy chairperson of the same party, also voiced strong criticism, calling the event “a spit on the national traditions and identity of the people.” She warned that turning beer festivals into a regular occurrence could gradually erode cultural norms.
“Today beer, tomorrow wine, then alcohol bars — events without cultural restraint. This sequence can alter society without anyone noticing,” Mukhamedjonova said in a Facebook post.
While acknowledging individual choice in consumption, she emphasized that public promotion of alcohol cannot be tolerated.
“When the concept of freedom is mixed with uncivilization and immodesty, this is a sign of the loss of identity of society,” she added.
Uzbekistan’s advertising law strictly prohibits promoting alcoholic beverages in ways that associate them with success or improved well-being. Sponsorship of cultural, entertainment, and sports events involving beer is also banned under current legislation.
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