Media products in Uzbekistan now are subject to “Moral Examination”

In Uzbekistan, media products will now undergo a "moral examination" to ensure they do not promote immorality, as reported by Otabek Hasanov, the Director of the Spirituality and Enlightenment Center. This decision follows a joint agreement among the Republican Spirituality and Enlightenment Center, AOKA, the Ministry of Culture, the Cinematography Agency, the National Television and Radio Company of Uzbekistan, and the National Media Association.

"Today’s vast flow of information introduces various media products on modern, relevant topics," the report stated. "However, not all meet the high educational standards necessary for our nation. It’s essential to prevent the spread of content that could negatively impact youth education and our national mentality, evaluating its alignment with our moral values."

This examination includes a new procedure for the moral evaluation of media content intended for television, radio, social media, and other platforms. Targeted content includes TV series, cartoons, movies, music videos, and online clips. A regulation outlining the spiritual examination process has been approved, defining the group’s main tasks.

• These tasks involve reviewing media content developed both domestically and abroad, with an emphasis on state policy, national and universal values, and potential threats to morality.
• The group assesses the impact of these media products on youth education and national values, working to prevent the distribution of content deemed harmful.

Recommendations for halting the broadcast of certain media products are made to relevant ministries, agencies, and organizations. In a recent video produced by the center, examples of serials, music videos, and clips by bloggers were highlighted as media products that promote immorality.

To support the success of this project, the Spirituality and Enlightenment Center has called on citizens for collaboration, emphasizing that every opinion and suggestion is valuable in identifying and promoting content that aligns with moral standards.

“Our collective goal,” stated the center, “is to foster a stable spiritual environment and educate young people in respect for our ancient national values.”