Russia proposes ban on Uzbek teacher following classroom incident

The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), alongside Russia’s Federal Agency for Compatriots Abroad and International Humanitarian Cooperation (Rossotrudnichestvo), has requested that the authorities consider banning an Uzbek teacher from entering Russia. This comes in the wake of an incident where the teacher physically assaulted a student in a Tashkent school. Yevgeny Primakov, head of Rossotrudnichestvo, made the announcement.

“Rossotrudnichestvo appeals to the competent authorities to consider the possibility of banning this 'Russophobic' individual from entering Russia. Neither this person nor their close relatives will receive education in Russia, participate in internships, or have opportunities here, as they will be blacklisted for life by our agency,” Primakov stated.

The proposed ban extends to anyone involved in the incident who may have supported the teacher's actions, including the administration of the educational institution, should they fail to address the situation appropriately.

Incident overview

The controversy erupted on September 23 during a Russian language class at general education school No. 188 in the Chilonzor district. Teacher R.O. was recorded grabbing a student, E.G., by the ear, pulling him from his seat, and slapping him. The video of the incident quickly circulated on social media, prompting widespread outrage.

Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, called on Uzbekistan to conduct a legal assessment of the incident and take measures against the teacher involved in the assault.

In response, several Uzbek officials, including Alisher Kadyrov, deputy speaker of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis; Sherzodkhan Qudrathoja, rector of the University of Journalism and Mass Communications; and Otabek Hasanov, head of the Republican Center for Spirituality and Enlightenment, defended Uzbekistan's sovereignty, stating that the country should address the matter according to its laws without external interference.

Following these developments, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs submitted a proposal to Uzbekistan's Ambassador in Moscow, Botyrjon Asadov, emphasizing the need to adhere to diplomatic protocols.

On September 26, during the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, Uzbekistan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Bakhtiyor Saidov met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The discussion highlighted the importance of mutual respect for each nation's internal affairs.

It’s worth noting that earlier this year, Sherzodkhon Kudratkhuja stirred controversy by referring to individuals living in Uzbekistan who do not speak its language as “invaders or idiots.” In response, Primakov threatened to sever all ties with the journalist and impose a ban on him and his family from entering Russia.