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Independent analysis · Central Asia & world geopolitics
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World

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Bysmillah — ribosiz, halol avtomobil moliyalash
World · 1 min read

North Korea tests cluster warhead for tactical ballistic missiles

Pyongyang said its "Type-2 standard" cluster warhead could devastate a target area of about 12–13 hectares; the test was guided by Central Military Commission member Kim Jong-sik.

1 November 2026
World · 4 min read

Uzbekistan and Japan: Diplomatic Ties and Aid (1992–1996)

In the first years of independence, Uzbekistan and Japan established official relations. Japan's recognition of Uzbekistan's independence, the exact date of diplomatic relations, the embassies, Japan's role as a major donor through ODA (Official Development Assistance) and JICA, the early loans, and President Islam Karimov's 1994 visit are set out from the sources.

1 November 2026
World · 1 min read

FBI blames North Korea for record $6.3bn crypto theft from Binance

The FBI tied the theft to North Korea's "TraderTraitor" group; Binance covered 90% of the losses and resumed withdrawals.

1 November 2026
World · 5 min read

Estate Planning in the US: How Wills, Trusts, and Probate Work

Wills, living trusts, probate, beneficiary designations, and powers of attorney — the basics of the US inheritance system for immigrant families. This is general information, not legal advice; rules vary from state to state.

31 October 2026
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CarGetGo — mashina oling, foizsiz halol moliyalash bilan
World · 3 min read

The Establishment of Diplomatic Relations Between Uzbekistan and Germany (1991–1996)

Germany was among the first Western countries to recognize independent Uzbekistan. From the recognition of 31 December 1991 to the formal relations of 6 March 1992 and the economic and cultural cooperation of the early years — the story of an important door the young state opened to Europe.

31 October 2026
World · 2 min read

Uzbekistan and the European Union: The Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (1996) and the First Years

In the early years of independence Uzbekistan laid the foundations of formal ties with Europe. From the 1992 memorandum to the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement signed in Florence in 1996 — the dates and facts of the first European diplomacy.

30 October 2026
World · 3 min read

How a U.S. Credit Score Works: FICO, VantageScore, and How to Improve It

In the U.S., renting an apartment, an auto loan, a mortgage — even a job — can hinge on your credit score. Here is how the 300–850 FICO and VantageScore are calculated, which factors weigh most, and how a newcomer builds a score from zero.

30 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Barack Obama campaigns in Georgia ahead of midterms and criticizes the Donald Trump administration

Five days before the US midterm elections, former president Barack Obama backed Democratic senator Jon Ossoff; he said the Trump administration mobilized a 'whole-of-government response' to a joke. Polls suggest Democrats could take the House.

29 October 2026
World · 1 min read

US: five days to the midterms — Barack Obama rallies for Democrats in Georgia

On November 3 the entire House of Representatives and 35 Senate seats are up for election. Former president Barack Obama held a rally in Morrow, Georgia, backing Senator Jon Ossoff and gubernatorial nominee Keisha Lance Bottoms.

29 October 2026
World · 3 min read

The establishment of diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and China (1991–1996)

In its first years of independence, Uzbekistan and the People's Republic of China established formal relations: China's recognition of Uzbekistan's independence, the exact date of diplomatic relations, the embassies, Islam Karimov's first visit, and the founding documents, set out on the basis of sources.

29 October 2026
World · 4 min read

How the US Electoral College Works

In the United States the president is not chosen by a direct popular vote but by a process called the Electoral College. Here is a clear, source-checked explainer of its 538 electors, the 270-vote threshold, the timeline, and the rules.

29 October 2026
World · 1 min read

OSCE and Supreme Court train journalists in Termez on covering court proceedings

A two-day training in Termez taught journalists, bloggers and court press officers to report legal proceedings accurately while upholding the presumption of innocence.

28 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Uzbekistan lets 2022/23 winter-intake master's students defend theses with a language certificate

Under a Higher Education Ministry commission decision, winter-intake master's students who could not defend their theses for lack of a foreign-language certificate may now do so on submitting a recognized certificate.

28 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Egypt postpones stricter entry rules for Uzbek citizens until March 2027

After talks led by Uzbekistan's Foreign Ministry, Egypt delayed tighter Sinai entry rules until 1 March 2027; until then Uzbeks can visit Sharm el-Sheikh visa-free.

28 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Thailand weighs 15-day visa-free entry for Uzbek citizens

Citing visa-processing delays, Thailand's Ministry of Tourism and Sports has proposed 15-day visa-free entry for citizens of Uzbekistan, Colombia and Mexico; the proposal goes to the Visa Policy Committee on 9 November.

28 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Uzbekistan introduces new benefits for doctors: mortgage help and remote-area allowances

At a meeting with medical and pharmaceutical workers, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced housing support, higher allowances for doctors in remote areas, and a drive to recruit Uzbek doctors with foreign clinical experience.

27 October 2026
World · 3 min read

How to manage and get out of debt: the avalanche and snowball methods

High-interest debt — a credit card or consumer loan — can grow fast and strangle a family for years. This neutral reference explains, on the basis of sources, the two main repayment methods — the avalanche and the snowball — the minimum-payment trap, and where to get legitimate free help. It is not financial advice.

24 October 2026
World · 1 min read

In November, seniors get 50% off museums and heritage sites and 20% off rail

During the 1–30 November 'Tourism Month for the Elderly,' pensioners get discounts at heritage sites and museums and on domestic rail and hotels.

24 October 2026
World · 3 min read

How AI chatbots work and why they "hallucinate"

Chatbots such as ChatGPT, Claude or Gemini are not machines that "know" — they are language models that predict the next word by probability. This neutral reference explains, on the basis of sources, how they work, why they sometimes answer with confident falsehoods (hallucination), and how to use them critically.

24 October 2026
World · 3 min read

Online security basics: strong passwords, two-step protection and avoiding phishing

A neutral, source-based guide to protecting your accounts and personal data online: how to build a password, why two-factor authentication matters, how to recognize phishing (scam messages), and what to do if you are hacked. This is not technical or legal advice.

23 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Nodir Jonuzoq: state-language use in agencies was below 50% seven years ago, now fully in Uzbek

The head of the state-language development department told the 'Oydin Gurunglar 2026' forum that 5,292 geographical names have been standardised and the Terminology Commission approved nearly 100 terms after a 30-year pause.

23 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Mirziyoyev at Karshi State University: 14,000 students, 7 laboratories and three new dormitories

The president reviewed facilities at the Kashkadarya university: new dormitories with 1,300 places, artificial-intelligence and robotics laboratories, and a 1,000-capacity media studio.

23 October 2026
World · 3 min read

How the U.S. federal government works: the three branches and checks and balances

A neutral reference for Uzbeks living in the United States: why the Constitution splits power into three branches — legislative, executive and judicial — how they limit one another, and the difference between the federal and state governments. This is not political advice.

23 October 2026
World · 1 min read

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visits Karshi State University: 14,000 students, 3 new dormitories, 7 laboratories

According to the Presidential Press Service, the head of state toured the university's internationally accredited programmes, joint degrees and research laboratories during a trip to Kashkadarya.

23 October 2026
World · 3 min read

How to verify information: lateral reading, the SIFT method and reverse image search

Checking a claim before you share it is the foundation of media literacy. This practical reference explains the techniques professional fact-checkers use — lateral reading and the SIFT method, reverse image search, and how to judge whether a source is reliable — on the basis of sources.

22 October 2026
World · 2 min read

The establishment of Uzbekistan–Turkey relations: the first country to recognise it (1991–1996)

Turkey was the first country in the world to recognise Uzbekistan’s independence. This historical reference sets out the establishment of diplomatic, educational and economic ties between the two states in 1991–1996, with exact dates and facts.

22 October 2026
World · 2 min read

The four changed letters of the revised Uzbek alphabet: an Uzbek tradition or a Turkic turn?

The letters Ş, Ç, Ö, Ğ in the revised Uzbek Latin alphabet look Turkic to many. In fact they were already part of the original 1993 alphabet. The arguments and objections around the reform.

22 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Uzbekistan to play friendly against Saudi Arabia in Doha on November 17

According to the Uzbekistan Football Association, Fabio Cannavaro's side will face Saudi Arabia in Doha on November 17; a friendly against Russia is also scheduled for November.

22 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Law on the revised Uzbek alphabet signed on Uzbek Language Day

On 21 October — Uzbek Language Day — President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a law improving the Latin-based Uzbek alphabet. The revised alphabet will have 28 letters and one apostrophe; four letters will be written differently.

21 October 2026
World · 3 min read

How electoral systems work: majoritarian, proportional and mixed systems, and the referendum

An electoral system is the set of rules that turns votes into seats. This neutral reference explains majoritarian, proportional and mixed systems, the difference between presidential and parliamentary systems, what a referendum is, and the core principles of a free election, on the basis of sources.

21 October 2026
World · 2 min read

Uzbekistan joins NATO's "Partnership for Peace" (1994) and its early foreign policy

On 13 July 1994 Uzbekistan signed NATO's Partnership for Peace Framework Document. This history reference explains what the programme is, Uzbekistan's multi-vector foreign policy in its early years, and the later cooperation milestones, with precise dates drawn from sources.

21 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Uzbekistan signs the Artemis Accords on space exploration

Uzbekistan joined the US-led Artemis Accords in Samarkand on 19 October, becoming the 77th signatory; the document was signed by Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov.

19 October 2026
World · 3 min read

How social-media algorithms and the "filter bubble" work: why your feed shows what it shows

The feed on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and X is sorted by an algorithm, not by time. This reference explains how an algorithmic feed works, the concepts of the "filter bubble" and the "echo chamber," what the research evidence actually says, and the European Union's new rules, on the basis of sources.

19 October 2026
World · 2 min read

The victims of repression and the rehabilitation of the Jadids: historical memory in the independence years (1991–2002)

After independence, Uzbekistan made the restoration of the memory of the Jadid reformers and the victims of Soviet repression a key part of reclaiming its national history. This article sets out the execution and rehabilitation of the Jadids and the creation of the days and complexes of remembrance, on the basis of sources.

19 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Mirziyoyev awards the US Secretary of State and Special Envoy with state orders

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev presented US Secretary of State Marco Rubio with the Order 'For Outstanding Merits' and US Special Envoy Sergio Gor with the Order 'Friendship' in Samarkand.

19 October 2026
World · 2 min read

The establishment of diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and the United States (1991–1992)

The United States recognized Uzbekistan's independence on 25 December 1991, diplomatic relations between the two states were established on 19 February 1992, and the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent opened on 16 March 1992. This history article sets out the exact dates of the process, the first ambassadors, and the context of Uzbekistan's international recognition, drawing on the U.S. Department of State and other official sources.

18 October 2026
World · 3 min read

How to read statistics and polls: averages, margin of error and misleading charts

The news is full of numbers, percentages and poll results every day. But the same number, presented differently, can leave an entirely different impression. This media-literacy explainer sets out, in practical terms, how polls work, what a margin of error is, the difference between the mean and the median, and how charts can mislead.

17 October 2026
World · 2 min read

The mahalla institution in the independence years: bodies of citizens' self-government (1992–1999)

The mahalla is a traditional community with deep historical roots in Uzbekistan. In the first years of independence the state turned it into a formal legal institution — a body of citizens' self-government. This history explainer sets out, on the basis of sources, the 1992 Constitution, the 1993 "Mahalla Law" and the subsequent reforms.

17 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Uzbekistan recalculates unjustified utility debts for nearly 800,000 citizens

Following an inspection by the Competition Committee, 22 billion soums (about $1.8 million) in unjustified utility debts were recalculated in favour of citizens, restoring the rights of nearly 800,000 people. The main cause was that subscriber databases had not been updated.

15 October 2026
World · 2 min read

The revival of Navruz: from the Soviet era to a state holiday

Navruz is an ancient, pre-Islamic festival marking the spring equinox (around 21 March). In the Soviet era it was suppressed as a "religious-feudal relic" and at times banned. During the national awakening, around 1990, Navruz was restored as an official holiday. This history explainer sets out the revival and the international recognition of the festival on the basis of sources.

15 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Uzbekistan signs law protecting children from violence: life imprisonment for rape

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on 14 October signed a law strengthening protection of children from violence. Sexual offences against children under 14 now carry 15–25 years or life imprisonment, the statute of limitations is abolished, and child victims and witnesses are guaranteed state-funded lawyers.

15 October 2026
World · 2 min read

How unemployment insurance works in the US: eligibility, amount, duration and the basics for immigrants

Unemployment insurance is a federal-state insurance system that pays temporary cash benefits to workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. It is funded by employer taxes and each state runs its own program. This explainer covers the structure of the system, eligibility, benefit amount and duration, and key points for immigrants — on the basis of sources.

14 October 2026
World · 2 min read

The switch to the Latin script: the 1993 alphabet reform and its stages

After independence Uzbekistan, on 2 September 1993, adopted a law introducing a Latin-based Uzbek alphabet. This historical explainer sets out the succession of Arabic, Latin and Cyrillic scripts, the 1993 law, the 1995 revision and the three-decade-long transition — on the basis of sources, with precise dates and facts.

14 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Uzbekistan's Water Resources Ministry rejects claims that the Amu Darya is drying up

The ministry cited hydropost data: on 9 October the water level at Termez was 27 cm higher than the same period in 2025; although discharge at Kerki fell by about 11%, the flow is being maintained. The decline was described as a seasonal process.

14 October 2026
World · 2 min read

Uzbekistan has picked 3.4 mln tons of cotton — 76% of the plan

As of 12 October, about 75% of the harvest was done by machines. Last season, the labour inspectorate recovered 1.785 bln soums in unpaid wages for cotton pickers.

13 October 2026
World · 2 min read

Uzbekistan strongly condemns the attack on Riyadh airport

On 10 October, Yemen's Houthis struck King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, the Saudi capital, with a ballistic missile: 12 people were killed and nearly 310 injured. Uzbekistan's Foreign Ministry called the attack a serious violation of international law.

13 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Is the Amu Darya drying up? The Water Ministry rejects the claims

The ministry rejected social-media claims, saying that on 9 October the level at the Termez station was 27 cm higher than a year earlier and that the decline is seasonal.

13 October 2026
World · 3 min read

What a deepfake is, and how to detect AI-generated fake video, audio and images

A deepfake is fake video, audio or imagery created or altered with artificial intelligence, making a real person appear to say something they never said or do something they never did. This explainer sets out how the technology works, real cases such as the 2024 US$25 million fraud, the practical signs for detecting synthetic content, and how to protect your family — on the basis of sources only.

13 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Japanese company to support Uzbekistan's nuclear-powered data center project

Tokyo's Muroosystems signed a memorandum with Uzatom to help build a ~50 MW data center next to Uzbekistan's first nuclear power plant in Jizzakh, powered by a small modular reactor.

12 October 2026
World · 4 min read

W-2 employee vs. 1099 independent contractor: worker status in the U.S.

When you work in the U.S. you are either an "employee" (W-2) or an "independent contractor" (1099) — a difference that fundamentally changes your taxes, benefits, and legal protections. This reference explains the IRS control test, Forms W-2 and 1099-NEC, FICA and self-employment tax (15.3%), quarterly taxes, worker protections, and misclassification — strictly on the basis of official sources: the IRS, SSA, and Department of Labor (DOL). This is general information, not tax or legal advice.

11 October 2026
World · 4 min read

Getting a foreign diploma recognized in the U.S.: credential evaluation (WES, ECE, NACES)

A degree earned abroad is not automatically recognized in the United States. For an employer, university, or licensing board you will usually need a "credential evaluation" report that states what level your degree is equivalent to in the U.S. system. This reference explains what an evaluation is, the difference between document-by-document and course-by-course reports, the NACES and AICE associations, the main services (WES, ECE and others), the absence of a single federal authority, and the role in immigration — strictly on the basis of official sources. This is general information, not legal advice.

11 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Trump urges Ukraine to elect a new leader; Zelensky proposes a 60-day ceasefire

Donald Trump criticised Zelensky over strikes on Russian refineries and said Ukraine needs a new president; Zelensky said choosing a leader is up to the Ukrainian people.

11 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Attack on Riyadh airport kills 12; Uzbekistan strongly condemns it

On 10 October, an attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh killed at least 12 people and wounded more than 300; Uzbekistan's Foreign Ministry called it a violation of international law.

11 October 2026
World · 3 min read

How to build a personal budget and savings: the 50/30/20 rule and an emergency fund

A budget is a way to plan income and spending. Below, what a budget is, the 50/30/20 rule recommended by the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) — roughly 50% of income to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings and debt repayment — the emergency fund (commonly three to six months of expenses), tracking spending, reducing debt, and savings accounts and compound interest are explained neutrally and strictly on the basis of official and reputable sources. This material explains mechanics; it is not financial advice.

9 October 2026
World · 2 min read

Pete Hegseth says a military execution will be livestreamed to the public

The US defense secretary said the execution of Nidal Malik Hasan, sentenced to death for the 2009 Fort Hood shooting, will be shown publicly; it is scheduled for December 3.

9 October 2026
World · 4 min read

How credit cards work: APR, the grace period, and the minimum payment

A credit card is a tool for using revolving credit borrowed from a bank. Below, what a credit card is, the credit limit, the annual percentage rate (APR) and how interest is calculated, the grace period and how to keep it, the minimum payment and the consequence of paying only the minimum, cash advances, and how payments are allocated are explained neutrally and strictly on the basis of official sources — the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This material explains mechanics; it is not financial advice.

9 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Uzbekistan to prepare nine caves and a salt mine for tourism

Ten natural sites across four regions — including the Baysun caves and the Khojaikon salt mine — will be opened for tourism by 2029, with digital passports and marked routes.

9 October 2026
World · 3 min read

Birlik and Erk: the national awakening on the eve of independence (1988–1991)

During the perestroika years a national awakening movement took shape in Uzbekistan. At its center were the Birlik (Unity) popular movement, founded on 16 November 1988 (led by Abdurahim Pulatov), and the Erk Democratic Party that grew out of it, formed in 1990 (led by Muhammad Salih). Birlik campaigned to make Uzbek the state language; that goal was achieved on 21 October 1989. Below, these movements, their demands, the presidential election of 29 December 1991, and the subsequent ban are presented neutrally and strictly on the basis of reputable sources.

9 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Centrum Air apologizes after a dispute over the Uzbek language

On 5 October a blogger was denied boarding a Samara–Tashkent flight after asking to be served in Uzbek. The airline later admitted the crew was at fault.

8 October 2026
World · 2 min read

The constitutional status of Karakalpakstan: 1990–1993

The Republic of Karakalpakstan was transferred from the RSFSR into the Uzbek SSR on 5 December 1936. On 14 December 1990 it adopted a Declaration of State Sovereignty. Uzbekistan's Constitution, adopted on 8 December 1992, defines Karakalpakstan as a sovereign republic within Uzbekistan and enshrines its own Constitution and the right to secede on the basis of a nationwide referendum. In 1993 the two republics signed a 20-year treaty. Based only on verified facts and exact dates.

8 October 2026
World · 2 min read

Uzbekistan's Dok-1 Max tragedy: most of the 78 billion soum compensation remains unpaid

A court awarded 78 billion soums in moral damages to families of children killed by the contaminated syrup. According to the Bureau of Compulsory Enforcement, only 16.7 billion soums has been paid; 61.3 billion remains outstanding.

8 October 2026
World · 3 min read

International document authentication: apostille, consular legalization, notarization and certified translation

To use a document (a diploma, a birth or marriage certificate, a power of attorney) officially abroad, it must be authenticated. Among parties to the 1961 Hague Convention this is an apostille: a single certificate that recognizes the signature and seal and replaces the multi-step consular legalization. For Uzbekistan the Hague Convention entered into force on 15 April 2012 (the instrument of accession was deposited on 25 July 2011); the USA has been a party since 1981 — so between Uzbekistan and the USA an apostille is sufficient, with no additional consular legalization required. Based on official sources.

7 October 2026
World · 4 min read

Financial aid for U.S. higher education: FAFSA, grants, scholarships and student loans

Eligibility for federal aid for U.S. college and university study is determined through one application — the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The FAFSA is free. From the 2024–25 award year it was simplified: the Student Aid Index (SAI) replaced the Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Main federal aid: the Pell Grant (maximum $7,395 for 2024–25 and 2025–26), FSEOG, Federal Work-Study and Direct Loans. Grants are not repaid; loans are repaid with interest. U.S. citizens, permanent residents (green card) and certain eligible non-citizens (refugees, asylees, parolees) qualify for federal aid; F-1 and undocumented students generally cannot get federal aid. Based on official sources.

7 October 2026
World · 3 min read

How to Send Money to Uzbekistan From Abroad: Methods, Costs and Rules

A practical reference based on the World Bank's Remittance Prices Worldwide reports, Central Bank of Uzbekistan data and reputable news sources. It explains the main transfer methods, the true cost (fee plus exchange-rate margin), speed, receiving rules and safety tips. This is informational, not financial advice.

6 October 2026
World · 6 min read

Buying a car in the USA: auto loan, insurance, and total cost — a practical reference for immigrants

How buying a car works in the USA: new vs used, dealer vs private seller, the auto loan (APR, term, down payment), insurance, and total cost of ownership. Official sources: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Insurance Information Institute (III), and the California DMV. This is a reference, not financial advice.

5 October 2026
World · 4 min read

How buying a home and a mortgage work in the US: the basics for immigrants

In the US, the main way to buy a home is a mortgage. Below, how a mortgage works, the down payment and PMI, the role of your credit score, FHA loans, closing costs and the options for immigrants (green-card and work-visa holders) are explained using only official sources — CFPB, FHA/HUD and Fannie Mae. This is a reference, not financial advice.

4 October 2026
World · 2 min read

The Cotton Affair (the 'Uzbek affair'): the 1980s investigation and its consequences

The 'Cotton Affair', also called the 'Uzbek affair', was a major Soviet-era criminal investigation into the padding of cotton figures (pripiski) and corruption in Uzbekistan's cotton economy in the 1980s. It led to some 800 criminal cases and more than 4,000 people found guilty. Below, its causes, scale and consequences are set out using only verified sources.

3 October 2026
World · 2 min read

Uzbekistan merges its two education ministries into a single Ministry of Education and Science

A presidential decree merged the Ministry of Preschool and School Education and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation into one ministry. State interference in higher education is to be cut and university autonomy expanded.

3 October 2026
World · 1 min read

A major fire breaks out at the Karvon market in Bukhara

A major fire at the Karvon market in Bukhara city on the night of October 3 was fully extinguished early on October 4. Many goods burned; no casualties have been reported, and the damage and cause have not been officially disclosed.

3 October 2026
World · 2 min read

Uzbekistan's Senate approves child-protection law: life imprisonment for raping children under 14

On October 2 the Senate of the Oliy Majlis approved the law: the penalty for raping a child under 14 rises to up to 25 years or life imprisonment, and the statute of limitations for grave sexual crimes against children is abolished. The law awaits the President's signature.

2 October 2026
World · 2 min read

Uzbekistan's first Oliy Majlis elections (1994) and the formation of the parliamentary system

On 25 December 1994, elections were held to the first Oliy Majlis of independent Uzbekistan (with a second round in January 1995). Established under the 1992 Constitution, this chamber was unicameral with 250 deputies and succeeded the Soviet-era Supreme Council. Below, the election, its structure and the international assessment are set out on verified facts only.

2 October 2026
World · 3 min read

The U.S. Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): how to get one and what it is for

An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a 9-digit number issued by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for people who have a federal tax reporting requirement but are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN). It serves one purpose only — federal tax reporting: it does not authorize work, does not change immigration status, and is not a substitute for an SSN. A practical guide based only on verified official sources.

2 October 2026
World · 2 min read

Getting a U.S. driver's license (DMV): how it works

In the U.S. a driver's license is issued not by the federal government but by each state's motor-vehicle agency (DMV), so the rules differ from state to state. The common steps are: documents, a written (knowledge) test, a learner's permit, and a road test. From 7 May 2025 the REAL ID requirement is in force — a federally compliant license or a passport is needed to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings. Based on official sources.

1 October 2026
World · 2 min read

The Uzbek diaspora in China (East Turkestan): how it formed

The Uzbeks of China are a small but ancient community that has lived for centuries in Xinjiang (East Turkestan). Most descend from merchants who came along the Silk Road from Bukhara, Kokand, Andijan and Samarkand. The community began settling in Xinjiang's cities from the 16th century and grew further after the 18th century. Today they are one of China's 56 officially recognized ethnic groups: the 2020 census counted 12,742. Based only on verified facts.

1 October 2026
World · 1 min read

Uzbekistan to host the 2027 U-20 World Cup: Mirziyoyev meets Infantino

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and FIFA President Gianni Infantino discussed the Uzbekistan–Azerbaijan U-20 World Cup and opening a regional FIFA office in Tashkent.

1 October 2026
World · 3 min read

Renting a home or apartment in the USA: the basics for immigrants

Renting an apartment in the U.S. usually follows the same steps: an application and application fee, a credit and background check, a lease, and a security deposit. Before moving in you often pay the first month's rent, the deposit, and sometimes the last month's rent at once. Discrimination is banned by the 1968 Fair Housing Act. The detailed rules vary from state to state. Based on official and reliable sources.

1 October 2026
World · 2 min read

How the Central Bank of Uzbekistan and monetary policy work

The central bank is the state's bank of issue: it issues the national currency (the som), regulates banks, and runs monetary policy. Founded in 1991; a new law of 11 November 2019 strengthened its independence and set price stability as its primary objective. In January 2020 it adopted an inflation-targeting regime with a medium-term target of 5%. Its main tool is the policy rate: held at 14% since March 2025 (unchanged again at the 16 September 2026 meeting). The som was floated on 5 September 2017. Based on official Central Bank data.

30 September 2026
World · 2 min read

The creation of Uzbekistan's Armed Forces (1992)

After independence, one of the key tasks of state-building was a national army. On 14 January 1992 Uzbekistan took the units of the former Soviet Turkestan Military District on its territory under national jurisdiction and established the Armed Forces. The Ministry of Defence was founded on 2 July 1992; the first defence minister was Rustam Akhmedov (who led it until 1997). On 29 December 1993 parliament designated 14 January as Defender of the Motherland Day. Verified facts and dates only.

30 September 2026
World · 2 min read

Consular services and passports for Uzbekistanis abroad

For Uzbekistan citizens living or staying abroad, embassies and consular sections are the main point of contact: they issue and renew passports, process documents, register civil-status acts (births, marriages), and provide emergency help. Most services first require being on the consular register. The biometric passport dates from 2011, the red international biometric passport from 1 January 2019; from 2021 the ID card is used domestically. The exit-permission sticker was abolished on 1 January 2019. Based on official sources.

30 September 2026
World · 1 min read

Oliy Majlis: 14 yoshgacha bolaga jinsiy tajovuz uchun umrbod qamoq taklif qilindi

Qonunchilik palatasi 29-sentabr kuni bolalarni zoʻravonlikdan himoya qilish boʻyicha qonun loyihasini birinchi oʻqishda maʼqulladi; jabrlangan bolani soʻroq qilish video tasmaga majburiy yoziladi, daʼvo muddati uzaytiriladi.

30 September 2026
World · 1 min read

Cotton-field defoliant sprayed near a school poisons 22 pupils in Uzbekistan's Guzar

In Guzar district of Kashkadarya, 22 pupils were hospitalized after a defoliant was sprayed on a cotton field beside their school; a criminal case was opened over violations of chemical-handling rules.

29 September 2026
World · 1 min read

Uzbekistan's Constitutional Court strikes down 10-day border detention without a judge

The court found provisions of Article 288 of the Code of Administrative Responsibility incompatible with Article 27 of the Constitution; no one may now be held longer than 48 hours without a court decision.

29 September 2026
World · 3 min read

The U.S. retirement system: Social Security, 401(k) and IRA basics

The U.S. retirement system rests on three pillars: public social insurance (Social Security), employer plans (401(k)), and personal savings (IRA). How you qualify for Social Security (40 credits ≈ 10 years; in 2026, 1 credit = $1,890, up to 4 credits a year); full retirement age (67 for those born after 1960), early (62) and delayed (up to 70) claiming; the FICA tax (6.2% + 6.2%); rules for immigrants and totalization agreements; and the 2026 limits for 401(k) and IRA. Based on the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) and the IRS.

29 September 2026
World · 1 min read

Javokhir Sindarov wins FIDE's first-ever Best Male Chess Player award

The 20-year-old Uzbek grandmaster won the Best Chess Player — Male category at the inaugural FIDE Excellence Awards 2026; the prize was presented on September 27 in Samarkand.

29 September 2026
World · 1 min read

Uzbekistan's Presidential Administration gains sweeping powers and immunity

A new constitutional law grants the administration broad powers, makes its head deputy chair of the Security Council, and guarantees lifetime immunity to senior officials.

28 September 2026
World · 1 min read

A tragedy in Namangan reignites Uzbekistan's death-penalty debate

After a case involving a five-year-old girl, Presidential Administration head Saida Mirziyoyeva called for applying the death penalty; rights defenders stress it will not return.

28 September 2026
World · 2 min read

The 1989 State Language Law: how Uzbek became the state language

On 21 October 1989 the Supreme Soviet of the Uzbek SSR adopted the Law “On the State Language,” declaring Uzbek the state language — a major national-cultural step on the road to independence. The law's content, its context in the Soviet perestroika era (the 1988–1990 wave of language laws), its 1995 revision, the 1993 Latin-alphabet law, and its reaffirmation in the 1992 Constitution (Article 4). Since 2020, 21 October is Uzbek Language Day. Based on lex.uz, the Constitution, stat.uz, and other sources.

28 September 2026
World · 2 min read

Uzbekistan's international recognition and UN membership (1991–1992)

How the world recognized Uzbekistan after the declaration of independence (31 August 1991): Turkey first (16 December 1991), the USA (25 December 1991), the CIS (Alma-Ata, 21 December 1991), UN membership (2 March 1992, on the same day as seven other former Soviet republics), and the IMF and World Bank (21 September 1992). Sourced history with exact dates.

27 September 2026
World · 1 min read

Court Jails Taftish Journalists and Former State Security Officers: Up to 10.5 Years

The case was heard in a closed military court; no official information was released. Charges: slander, insult, fraud and extortion.

27 September 2026
World · 4 min read

How to detect disinformation and fake news: a practical guide

The difference between disinformation, misinformation and malinformation; IFLA's 8-step checklist; the SIFT method; reverse image search; signs of deepfakes; fact-checking organizations — a fact-based media-literacy guide grounded in authoritative sources.

26 September 2026
World · 3 min read

29 December 1991: the independence referendum and first presidential election

On 29 December 1991 Uzbekistan held two votes on a single day: a referendum confirming independence (98.26% in favor) and the first direct presidential election (Islam Karimov 87.14%, Muhammad Solih 12.49%). Sourced history with exact dates and figures.

26 September 2026
World · 5 min read

How the US tax return works: basics for immigrants

What a US income tax return is, who must file, the difference between an SSN and an ITIN, Form 1040 and W-2, the April 15 deadline, refunds and penalties — a fact-based guide for immigrants from Uzbekistan, based on IRS sources.

26 September 2026
World · 3 min read

How to read the news: media literacy basics

Proven techniques for checking information — the SIFT method, lateral reading, telling news from advertising, and verifying images. A facts-only practical guide.

20 September 2026
World · 3 min read

Bank accounts and credit history in the USA: basics for newcomers

Opening a bank account, the difference between an SSN and an ITIN, FICO credit scores, and building credit from scratch — a facts-only guide for immigrants in the USA.

20 September 2026
World · 5 min read

BRICS Adopts New Delhi Declaration: 140 Paragraphs on UN Reform and AI Governance

The 18th BRICS summit was held Sept. 12–13 under India's chairmanship. The declaration addressed tensions in the Middle East, reform of the UN Security Council, unilateral sanctions and settlements in national currencies.

12 September 2026
World · 5 min read

Mass Attack on Kyiv: 5 Killed, 142 Drones and 31 Missiles Shot Down

The Sept. 8 attack on Ukraine's capital came after the end of a three-day pause that followed visits by U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. According to Klitschko, 30 people were wounded.

8 September 2026