Uzbekistan: New Report Examines Barriers Facing Persons with Disabilities in the Ferghana Valley

A new report published by International Partnership for Human Rights (IPHR) examines issues of disability and exclusion in the Ferghana Valley of Uzbekistan. It finds that, despite recent reforms, persons with disabilities continue to face systemic barriers that limit their full participation in society contrary to Uzbekistan’s international commitments.

The report assesses the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) – ratified by Uzbekistan in 2021 – in the Ferghana Valley, based on IPHR’s own research, monitoring by local civil society actors, and interviews and consultations with civil society experts in the region.

The report highlights key concerns regarding the human rights situation of persons with disabilities, including challenges related to daily life, access to services, and protection. Relevant provisions of the CRPD are referenced throughout the thematic chapters, situating the findings within Uzbekistan’s international human rights obligations.

While focusing primarily on the Ferghana Valley, the briefing also reflects broader national trends, as insights gathered during the research frequently pointed to systemic issues beyond the regional level.

The analysis notes that, despite recent legislative reforms, disability continues to be widely approached through medical or charitable perspectives by both officials and the general public, limiting the effectiveness of policies and programmes and constraining progress toward meaningful inclusion.

Overall, the findings underscore the need to move beyond formal compliance with international standards toward effective implementation in practice. Structural reforms, investment in accessibility, education, healthcare, and employment, as well as strengthened cooperation between relevant stakeholders, are essential to ensure that persons with disabilities can fully participate in social, economic, and public life in Uzbekistan.

The report concludes with solution-oriented recommendations informed by local perspectives.

The report, On the Periphery: Disability and Exclusion in the Ferghana Valley of Uzbekistan, can be downloaded below – in English and Uzbek translation.

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Disclaimer: The report was funded by the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of IPHR and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.