Uzbekistan - a country of historical tolerance and cultural pluralism

Informational material under the name «Uzbekistan - a country of historical tolerance and cultural pluralism» was distributed at the headquarters of the United Nations for six languages ​​of the UN as an official document of the 66 session of the General Assembly, timed to International Day of Tolerance, proclaimed by UNESCO on 16 November 1995 and annually celebrated in this day.

It reflects the important factors of the situation in Uzbekistan preservation of peace and harmony, which is given special attention since the early days of independence. It is noted that the Constitution of the Republic is the solid legal guarantees of freedom of religion for people of all faiths, including Muslims, Orthodox, Jewish, Catholic, and others.

"Uzbekistan is the secular state, but today it is considered one of the centers of formation and development of Islamic culture and philosophy. The names and heritage of great ancestors of Uzbek people - Muslim theologians and philosophers - have been restored just after gaining our independence. Their work has consistently explored and activities that contribute to the preservation of their great spiritual heritage, revered by Muslims all over the world, "the document says.

It stresses that today in Uzbekistan, representatives of more than 130 nations and nationalities and there are 16 religious denominations, which are provided with every opportunity to study their native language, culture and arts, crafts, customs and traditions. Newspapers, magazines are publishing in languages ​​of the large communities, also broadcasting radio and television broadcasts. Teaching is carried out in seven languages in schools and universities.

The paper also reported that the International Day for Tolerance is celebrated annually in Uzbekistan on 16 November. In the framework of a variety of events devoted to inter-ethnic tolerance. In their preparation and conduct involved not only the NCC and other public and governmental organizations, universities, and the National Commission for UNESCO under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Issues of tolerance are also discussed at scientific conferences devoted to the Day of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, which is the guarantor of ethnic, religious tolerance and civil accord in society. The international community has recognized that Uzbekistan had much experience of mutual understanding among religions and it can serve as a model for other states.