Bakhrom Mirkasimov

Deputy rector on research and innovation, WIUT

Zakirov Bekzod

Director of Center for Policy Research and Outreach, WIUT

The higher education sector in Uzbekistan has undergone significant transformation in recent years. The changes reflect broader global trends, where education and research have been increasingly recognized as critical drivers of economic growth and sustainable development. Although Uzbekistan has made notable progress in modernizing education and research activities, there still remains a pressing need for a renewed approach in public administration and policy making. The challenges faced today are more complex and require a shift from traditional paradigms to innovative thinking in education and research.[1] The focus can no longer be solely on increasing access or producing research outputs. We must also prioritize the relevance, adaptability, and quality of educational and research frameworks to address real-world governance and public policy challenges.

This necessity is amplified by the country’s ongoing reforms and the increasing complexity of public administration in the modern era.[2] From digital transformation to sustainable development and public sector modernization, Uzbekistan must ensure that its education and research systems are equipped to prepare policymakers, administrators, and researchers with the skills and knowledge required to navigate these issues effectively. This article argues that while education and research in public policy and administration have progressed, there is an urgent need for new models and frameworks that emphasize innovation, interdisciplinary learning, and practical application to meet the evolving demands of governance in Uzbekistan.

The Need for Public Policy and Administration in Uzbekistan

The administrative framework in Uzbekistan still retains the centralized governance structures similar to other post-Soviet countries. Indeed, this system has effectively emphasized bureaucratic discipline and policy adherence so far. However, over the years it proves that the system lacks the flexibility and innovation. Most importantly, addressing the complex challenges of the modern era now requires evidence-based decision-making.[3] Recently, Uzbekistan started the reform process to significantly transform the existing system of public administration by introducing modern governance approaches. In this process, a need to modernized approach to public policy and administration through education and research has become more urgent. Contemporary issues such as globalization, climate change, and technological disruption demand a governance system capable of adapting to rapid changes and addressing complex challenges.

There are numerous challenges that Uzbekistan’s public administration currently faces. Such complex issues, including changing socio-economic conditions, economic diversification, digital transformation, and public sector modernization, require a dynamic and skilled public administration workforce. Uzbekistan’s growing integration into global markets and institutions, such as its accession process to the World Trade Organization (WTO), further emphasizes the importance of aligning its governance standards with international norms.[4] However, the inefficiencies of the legacy system still persist. Bureaucratic inertia, overlapping responsibilities, and resistance to innovation in public sector hinder effective governance.[5] These issues are compounded by specific administrative gaps, such as ineffective intergovernmental coordination, overlapping functions within administrative bodies, weak local governance, and limited fiscal decentralization. Furthermore, Uzbekistan is yet to fully integrate digital transformation such as AI and big data into public services, despite their potential to enhance decision-making and service delivery. A critical factor is the need for continuous training to ensure civil servants are equipped to address evolving global governance and technological demands.

How can a renewed approach help solve these complex issues in Uzbekistan? A modernized approach to public policy education and research can address many of Uzbekistan’s challenges. Evidence-based policymaking, informed by rigorous research, can guide the way that Uzbekistan reforms the system of public administration, improving intergovernmental coordination, public service delivery and anti-corruption measures. There is a definite need for evidence-based research in promoting new reform activities such as improving local governance and fiscal decentralization as raised important policy change recently.[6] Educational programs emphasizing digital transformation in governance will equip civil servants with the skills needed to leverage technology effectively. Training programs can also clarify the roles and mandates of ministries, fostering collaboration and reducing inefficiencies. Local governments can be strengthened through education and research on best practices in decentralization, which will enhance their autonomy and effectiveness.

Global Trends in Educating and Training Civil Servants

As governance challenges grow increasingly complex, countries worldwide are recognizing the importance of preparing the civil servants with advanced education, practical training, and continuous professional development. A new global trend emphasizes educating future cohorts of public administrators in renowned universities and fostering innovation through centers of excellence. Neighboring country Kazakhstan and others like Singapore, and South Korea have adopted forward-thinking approaches to education, research and training in public administration, which can provide valuable lessons for Uzbekistan.

The case of Singapore: a model of evidence-based policy innovation and administration

Singapore is often cited as a global benchmark for excellent public administration. The civil service in the country is known for its efficiency, meritocracy, and innovation. The country’s success stems from its commitment to rigorous education and research in public policy. Through rigorous academic training and continuous learning, civil servants are equipped to implement research-driven policies. Civil servants undergo rigorous academic training, often at prestigious universities like the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU), as well as international institutions. Analytical skills are cultivated through this education, enabling public officials to tackle complex problems with pragmatic, research-backed solutions.

The government also emphasizes lifelong learning, offering specialized courses at the Civil Service College (CSC) to continuously upgrade skills in areas like policy analysis, leadership, and digital transformation.[7] Training is extensive, starting with foundational programs at the CSC and advancing to specialized mid-career courses in public finance, policymaking, and digital governance. Senior officials gain global perspectives through international programs at institutions like Harvard or INSEAD. This lifelong learning approach ensures adaptability and effectiveness in addressing emerging challenges. Promotion is performance-driven, based on leadership ability, innovation, and measurable impact. Structured assessments and leadership programs, such as the Management Associates Program (MAP), prepare promising individuals for senior roles. This process ensures that capable leaders drive Singapore’s governance and policy innovation.

What sets Singapore apart is its seamless integration of academic research into policymaking, creating a governance model driven by evidence and innovation. The government collaborates with universities, research centers, and think tanks to address challenges like housing, transportation, and climate resilience, ensuring forward-looking and research-grounded policies. For instance, partnerships with the Center for Liveable Cities (CLC) and the National University of Singapore (NUS) have shaped public housing policies, with over 80% of Singapore’s population living in Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats.[8] Research on urban density, social integration, and sustainability has influenced eco-friendly HDB designs, including solar panels and smart waste systems. Similarly, collaborations with the SMART (Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology) have improved transportation systems through real-time data analytics, optimizing traffic flow, predicting commuter patterns, and advancing autonomous vehicle trials.[9] These efforts exemplify Singapore's commitment to integrating research into innovative policymaking.

In short, Singapore’s approach highlights the role of research and education in fostering innovation and ensuring efficient governance. The country’s emphasis on integrating research into decision-making processes has enabled it to maintain a highly responsive and adaptive public administration system.

Designing new approach to research and education in public policy and administration

In conclusion, Uzbekistan can draw significant insights from these countries in its efforts to modernize public administration education and training to address its evolving governance challenges. In the way of adopting the new approach, the government can encourage universities to establish dedicated public policy schools at undergraduate and graduate levels to produce analytically prepared professionals. Undergraduate programs can offer multidisciplinary training in governance, economics, and data analytics. Similarly, graduate programs can focus on advanced policy design, strategic planning, and leadership. Collaborations with renowned institutions like Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew School can enhance these efforts by integrating global expertise.

In addition to formal education, specialized training centers for civil servants should be introduced, modeled on successful systems. These centers can offer focused programs on public management, digital transformation, AI and strategic governance. Admission and promotion should be based on merit, fostering professionalism and improving the public image of civil servants. Practical training methods, including simulations and case studies, can prepare officials for real-world challenges while emphasizing the value of ethical and effective governance.

Finally, Uzbekistan can cultivate a culture of evidence-based research to support administrative and governance innovation. Universities, think tanks, and government agencies should collaborate to produce actionable research and pilot new policy approaches through innovation labs. Training civil servants to interpret and apply research findings in policymaking will ensure data-driven decisions. Establishing research hubs and integrating these into the governance system will align Uzbekistan’s policies with global best practices, ensuring their effectiveness and adaptability.

[1] Noweski, C., Scheer, A., Büttner, N., von Thienen, J., Erdmann, J. and Meinel, C., 2012. Towards a paradigm shift in education practice: Developing twenty-first century skills with design thinking. Design thinking research: Measuring performance in context, pp.71-94.

[2]https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/docserver/137ce911-en.pdf?expires=1732691668&id=id&accname=guest&checksum=2BC7FD8FA9543B768FF7C433B1BB288C

[3] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320723004056

[4] https://daryo.uz/en/2024/10/18/uzbekistan-steps-up-efforts-to-join-wto-by-2026-faces-regulatory-hurdles

[5] https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/docserver/137ce911-en.pdf?expires=1732691668&id=id&accname=guest&checksum=2BC7FD8FA9543B768FF7C433B1BB288C

[6] https://thediplomat.com/2024/11/navigating-the-challenging-path-of-local-governance-reform-in-uzbekistan/

[7] https://www.soumu.go.jp/main_content/000336352.pdf

[8] https://www.clc.gov.sg/docs/default-source/urban-systems-studies/uss-built-by-singapore.pdf

[9] https://www.intellistride.com/blog/how-singapores-smart-traffic-system-is-redefining-urban-mobility/

COP29, the 29th Conference of the Parties, represents a critical moment for global climate action, often referred to as the "Finance COP." The annual COP meetings, organized by the UNFCCC, bring nations together to assess climate progress and strengthen commitments. At COP29, for the first time in 15 years, countries will set a new global climate finance goal to replace the 2009 pledge by developed nations to provide $100 billion annually by 2020 to support climate action in developing countries—a goal that has been delayed and proved insufficient to meet growing needs.

This conference is an opportunity to establish a stronger, more effective climate finance commitment. In addition, COP29 provides a platform for setting enhanced emissions targets, advancing adaptation measures, evaluating progress, and increasing support for nations facing climate-related loss and damage. As a potential turning point, COP29 aims to align global financing with the ambitious climate actions needed to address the escalating impacts of climate change. This policy digest explores the key areas of focus and potential outcomes from COP29, offering insights into the challenges and implications for future climate policy.

At COP29 in Baku, success will hinge on progress across four key issues, reflecting the urgency of addressing climate challenges while promoting equitable and sustainable development. The following insights highlight the essence of each priority area:

• A New Global Climate Finance Goal that Responds to Developing Countries’ Needs

Despite its continued growth, the amount of climate funding is still far from sufficient. Estimates vary greatly (because of the models and inputs used). Still, most conclude that after investing their resources, developing nations will require an extra $500 billion to $1 trillion annually in climate finance from outside financing sources. Compared to the existing promise of $100 billion, that is at least five times as much.

The Paris Agreement of 2015 pledged nations to replace the $100 billion yearly target with a new collective quantified goal on climate finance (NCQG) in 2024 that would consider developing nations' needs. However, it's yet unclear what this additional commitment will entail. It is imperative that negotiators at COP29 not only drastically expand the overall amount of climate financing, but also outline the terms and timeline for its distribution, the projects it will fund, how it will reach the most vulnerable populations, and how all climate finance will be evaluated. More strategic use of a variety of financial instruments, improved access to financing, increased financial predictability, and a results-oriented approach are all ways that negotiators can enhance the quality of the financing that is provided.

• Momentum for Stronger National Climate Commitments

The Paris Agreement mandated that nations submit more robust national climate commitments, referred to as "nationally determined contributions" every five years. After COP29, the next round is due in a few months. This means that the UN meeting in Baku is the final significant chance to establish clear standards for what the next generation of NDCs should aim toward.

Countries, particularly the biggest polluters in the world, should declare their plans to submit ambitious and daring new NDCs at COP29 and Climate Week in New York in September. Other countries may be inspired to do the same, which might lead to additional investment, business, and city activity. Specifically, countries should ensure their NDCs align with the level of emissions reductions scientists say are necessary for limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees C (2.7 degrees F) and preventing some of the worst effects of climate change by 2025. NDCs should also include sector-specific targets, such as concrete goals for shifting to emissions-free energy and food systems. They should put people at the center, ensuring a ‘just transition.’ And they should include stronger adaptation commitments with a focus on the most vulnerable, marginalized groups and communities. These should align with sectoral targets outlined in the Global Goal on Adaptation and with countries’ own longer-term National Adaptation Plans.

• Show Progress Towards Existing Commitments on Cities, Energy, Food and Forests

Unprecedented international promises were made during the COP28 that included, among other initiatives, accelerating low-carbon transportation, building resilient food systems, doubling energy efficiency, quadrupling renewable energy, and moving away from fossil fuels. At COP29, nations are expected to hold themselves responsible for achieving such goals.
Global Methane Pledge, UAE Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems and Climate Action, Glasgow Declaration on Forests and Land Use, and the city-focused Coalition for High Ambition Multi-Level Partnerships (CHAMP) are just a few of the voluntary climate action initiatives that hundreds of nations have joined in recent years. Even though these programs have strong commitments, they will not be celebrated until there is apparent achievement. Countries could demonstrate their commitments at COP29 by declaring specific actions to fulfill them and by presenting data and information on their current progress.

• A Clear Process for Funding and Responding to Loss and Damage

An agreement to fully operate the Loss and Damage Fund was reached at the COP28 session in Dubai following years of rigorous negotiations.

At COP28, the operationalization of a Loss and Damage Fund was officially established to support climate-vulnerable nations impacted by climate change. This fund was among the first decisions at the conference, drawing on the framework agreed to at COP27. With initial pledges reaching approximately $661 million, the fund marks a significant step in addressing climate-induced loss and damage in developing countries, though experts indicate that further financing will be essential to meet the high anticipated needs. With the support of this fund, vulnerable nations will be able to address climate change impacts that are beyond human adaptation, such as the loss of homes and lives during severe floods or the removal of coastal historic sites because of rising sea levels. A board will determine the fund's governance and policy, and the World Bank will serve as its host.

In conclusion, COP29 presents a critical opportunity to make tangible strides in climate action across these four essential areas. Setting a robust new global climate finance goal that directly meets the financial needs of developing countries is vital to ensuring equitable climate progress. Stronger national climate commitments, especially from the world's largest polluters, will be essential in driving ambitious emissions reductions and adaptation efforts. Demonstrating clear progress on previous pledges, particularly in transforming energy, food systems, and forestry, will reinforce global accountability. Lastly, operationalizing the Loss and Damage Fund offers hope to vulnerable nations in addressing the irreversible impacts of climate change. Together, these priorities at COP29 underscore a path toward a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable future.

The Annual Meeting of the Multidimensional Poverty Peer Network (MPPN) held in Tashkent from August 27-29, 2024, highlighted critical developments in understanding and tackling global poverty. One of the primary focuses of the conference was the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), an innovative tool that expands the measurement of poverty beyond traditional income metrics to include multiple deprivations that individuals face across various dimensions such as education, health, and living standards.

The MPI is proving to be a vital instrument for policymakers, offering a comprehensive view of poverty that allows for more targeted interventions, effective resource allocation, and enhanced tracking of progress in poverty reduction efforts. It facilitates comparisons of poverty across regions and dimensions, thereby supporting governance and aiding the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals through improved social programs.

The latest findings presented at the meeting, drawn from the MPI 2023, indicated that over 1.2 billion people worldwide live in multidimensional poverty, contending with severe deprivations in health, education, and essential living standards. South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa are particularly affected, with widespread deprivations in education and living standards noted, including critical shortages in access to clean water, electricity, and adequate housing.

In Uzbekistan, the adoption of the MPI has started to provide insights into the local dimensions of poverty. The pilot MPI for Uzbekistan considers various facets, including basic infrastructure and living standards, health and social capital, financial inclusion, and employment. This nuanced approach has revealed that 1.7% of Uzbekistan’s population is multidimensionally poor, with a deprivation intensity of 35.3%. Uzbekistan’s MPI value stands at 0.006, which is higher than Kyrgyzstan's but lower than Tajikistan’s, underscoring the need for precisely focused poverty reduction strategies in the region.

The conference thus emphasized the MPI's role in reshaping how poverty is understood and addressed globally, showcasing its effectiveness in providing actionable data that can lead to substantive changes in poverty alleviation policies.

The New York Times recently published an insightful article examining the dynamic shifts within the global economy amidst escalating U.S.-China tensions. A significant focus of the article is the growing trend of decoupling between the two economic powerhouses, a move away from the deep interdependence that has characterized their relationship for decades. This decoupling is reshaping global trade and investment patterns in profound ways, signaling a departure from established economic interactions.

As the U.S. and China step back from their previously intertwined economic relationship, global supply chains are undergoing a significant transformation. Companies worldwide are reassessing their manufacturing and sourcing strategies to mitigate risks linked to the U.S.-China divide. This reconfiguration of supply chains is prompting businesses to diversify their operations and explore new markets, aiming to reduce dependency on any single country or region.

The ongoing tensions have introduced a high degree of uncertainty in global trade. Both countries have implemented tariffs, sanctions, and export controls, which disrupt traditional trade flows and pose fresh challenges for international businesses. These developments are forcing companies and countries alike to navigate a rapidly changing economic landscape.

Amidst these shifts, countries across the globe are reevaluating their economic alliances. Many nations find themselves in a delicate position, trying to maintain balanced economic relations with both the U.S. and China while steering clear of the repercussions from their confrontations. This balancing act is critical as states seek to protect their own economic interests without getting caught in the crossfire of geopolitical strife.

The long-term implications of U.S.-China decoupling are profound, suggesting a future where the global economy might become more fragmented. This potential fragmentation could lead to the formation of new economic blocs and alliances, reshaping international economic relations in significant ways. The evolving scenario poses a critical moment for global stability, as the world grapples with the ramifications of these two giants charting increasingly divergent paths. This shift towards a more compartmentalized world economy could redefine economic globalization as we know it, bringing about far-reaching consequences for global economic governance and development strategies.

The sixth consultative meeting of Central Asian heads of state, hosted in Astana on August 9th, marked a pivotal moment in the region’s diplomatic endeavors, signaling a revived dedication to regionalism and cooperation. Initially, post-independence attempts to foster regional organizations aimed at economic integration met with limited success due to a myriad of political, economic, and cultural divergences. However, the shifting geopolitical landscape has recently rekindled a collective interest in enhancing connectivity and cooperation among the Central Asian states.

During this meeting, the leaders demonstrated a profound acknowledgment of past challenges, while setting a clear direction for the future through the endorsement of strategic documents. The "Central Asia – 2040" strategy and the action plans for 2025-2027 were significant highlights, focusing on key areas such as security, economic cooperation, and infrastructure enhancements. These documents are set to provide a roadmap that envisions a cohesive future, aiming to leverage collective strengths and mitigate shared vulnerabilities.

Moreover, the discussions at the meeting reflected a strong will to deepen regional integration, which was evidenced by the commitment to developing flexible legal frameworks that facilitate easier collaboration across borders. Despite the persistence of some reservations regarding the formation of supranational entities, notably from Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, there was a general consensus on the need for increased sectoral cooperation. This approach aims to foster a more integrated regional market, which could enhance competitiveness and economic resilience.

On economic and security fronts, the agreements reached during the meeting stressed the importance of a unified approach to security challenges and the promotion of joint economic initiatives. These initiatives are expected to counter external economic pressures through a unified regional strategy, reflecting a matured understanding of the interconnected nature of today's global challenges.

The implications of these renewed efforts are profound. With a concerted focus on bolstering regional stability and stimulating economic growth, the initiatives are poised to enhance intra-regional trade and economic ties. Remarkably, the trade turnover among Central Asian countries has been on a significant upward trajectory, having doubled from $5.7 billion to $11 billion within the last six years. This growth is a testament to the increasing economic interdependence and the potential for future collaborative gains.

In sum, the sixth consultative meeting not only reaffirmed the Central Asian countries' commitment to regionalism but also set forth actionable strategies that pave the way for a more interconnected and prosperous future. As these nations continue to navigate their path on the global stage, their collective efforts through such forums are crucial in shaping a stable and economically robust region.