Uzbekistan

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This video contains violent and disturbing images.

Viewer discretion advised.

Video courtesy of the Basekz Channel

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Uzbek security forces used unjustifiable lethal force to disperse protesters on July 1 and 2 in Karakalpakstan.

Human Rights Watch has analyzed dozens of videos and photographs taken during the protests.

We found that security forces used brutal force. At least 21 people died and hundreds more suffered horrific injuries.

The Republic of Karakalpakstan is an autonomous region in Uzbekistan.

Protestors were demonstrating against proposed constitutional amendments that sought to end Karakalpakstan’s status as a self-governing region.

In response to the protests, Uzbekistan’s president Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced the amendments would be withdrawn.

Law enforcement should not use excessive force to disperse peaceful protests.

Potential lethal force should never be indiscriminately directed at crowds, but only used if there is imminent threat to life.

Uzbek authorities should effectively investigate violations against protestors and hold those responsible for serious violations, including the right to life, to account.

ACTOR’S VOICE, Muzaffar
My boyfriend and I got caught by police kissing in the park.
 

We were detained for questioning. An officer forced us to hand over and unlock our phones.
 

When the police found photos and videos of us kissing, he threatened us with criminal prosecution.

VOICEOVER

In Uzbekistan, consensual same-sex relationships between men are illegal.  

Article 120 of the criminal code punishes consensual sex between males with up to three years in prison. 

Gay and bisexual men experience discrimination, violence, blackmail, and extortion from both state and non-state actors. They have almost no protections. 

ACTOR’S VOICE, Muzaffar
My mother had to bribe the police to get us out.

VOICEOVER

Uzbekistan’s president claimed respect for human rights is “central” in reforming Uzbekistan.

As a member of the UN Human Rights Council, Uzbekistan should uphold international human rights standards and decriminalize consensual same-sex conduct.