WASHINGTON – The Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission) will hold a briefing examining the human rights situation and state of civil society in Uzbekistan three years after Andijan. The briefing will take place on Tuesday, May 13 at 10:00 a.m. in room B-318 Rayburn House Office Building.
On May 13, 2005, Uzbek security forces opened fire on demonstrators in Andijan. Hundreds were killed, and in the subsequent crackdown, restrictions were imposed to further stifle dissent. Despite sanctions by the European Union and the United States, Tashkent has refused to allow any independent investigations of the tragedy. While the human rights situation remains dire, the Government of Uzbekistan continues to pursue engagement with the EU and U.S., positioning itself as a key strategic ally in regional energy and security concerns.
Panelists will explore prospects for democratization in Uzbekistan and the possibilities of improving U.S.-Uzbek relations. Additionally, they will discuss the need for reforms in cotton production, Uzbekistan’s largest source of income.
WHAT: U.S. Helsinki Commission Briefing on Human Rights in Uzbekistan Three Years After Andijan Events
WHEN: Tuesday, May 13 at 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: B-318 Rayburn House Office Building
Panelists include:
Ms. Shahida Tulaganova, documentary film maker who launched the Uzbek-language newspaper “Siyosat”
Ms. Masha Lisitsyna, Human Rights Watch’s Europe and Central Asia Division
Ms. Juliette Williams, founding director of the Environmental Justice Foundation
Dr. Eric McGlinchey, Assistant Professor of Government and Politics, George Mason University
