Samarkand will become the center of global attention as Uzbekistan welcomes the UN Public Service Forum for the first time, from June 23 to 25, 2025. The event will bring together government leaders, experts, civil society representatives, and innovators from around the world. Delegates will explore strategies for effective public administration, digital transformation, and citizen engagement.
The forum will unfold in the historic city of Samarkand, a fitting backdrop for discussions about modernizing governance while respecting tradition. Uzbekistan aims to present its recent reforms and learn from international partners. The gathering will offer a unique opportunity to shape the future of public service and advance the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Uzbekistan has undertaken sweeping reforms to transform its public sector. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has led efforts to make the government more transparent, efficient, and responsive to citizens. New platforms, such as the Virtual Reception Office and People’s Receptions, allow residents to communicate directly with officials. These initiatives reflect a broader shift toward a government that listens and acts on public concerns.
Legal and institutional changes have accelerated progress. In 2019, the Agency for the Development of Public Service began driving reforms in human resource management and professional standards. The “Mahalla Seven” initiative strengthens ties between the government and communities, helping to identify and resolve local issues early. The Law “On Civil Service,” introduced in 2022, established open competition for government jobs and set clear performance expectations for civil servants.
Uzbekistan has also streamlined its public administration. Authorities reduced the number of executive bodies and administrative staff by nearly a third. They simplified licensing, moved dozens of public services online, and expanded access to digital government tools. The national e-government portal now offers hundreds of services to millions of users.
As host of the UN Public Service Forum, Uzbekistan will present its reform journey to an international audience. Participants will exchange ideas on digital innovation, talent development, and building trust between government and citizens. The forum will foster dialogue and collaboration, helping countries learn from each other’s experiences.
Samarkand’s rich heritage provides an inspiring setting for these forward-looking discussions. The event will highlight Uzbekistan’s commitment to blending tradition with modern governance. By hosting the UN Public Service Forum, Uzbekistan signals its readiness to play a leading role in shaping the future of public administration, both regionally and globally.
