On May 15, Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration and president’s spokesman Sherzod Asadov commented on the degree of freedom of speech in Uzbekistan on the sidelines of the annual national journalism award Oltin Qalam (Golden Pen).

In his opinion, it is wrong to assess the degree of freedom of speech in the country, while there is a press freedom ranking published by Reporters Without Borders, which is a generally accepted standard in the world.

In the latest ranking, Uzbekistan was ranked 137th, slipping 4 places to the previous ranking. The media freedom situation in Uzbekistan, according to the organization, remains “challenging”, with “repressive” media laws in place and “surveillance, censorship and self-censorship” prevalent.

Sherzod Asadov said: “We must adequately assess the results of reforms in terms of support for freedom of speech, support for the media, which were carried out with the coming to power of our respected president in December 2016. It is most important. In my opinion, if you are an objective journalist, you will also admit it, a lot has been achieved. Of course, there is no limit to perfection. We still have a lot to do. We have no right to stop."

He added that journalists would be better placed to answer the question whether the situation with freedom of speech had improved or worsened, but the state continues and intensifies its work to strengthen freedom of speech. “In fact, you should give an assessment,” Sherzod Asadov said, addressing the journalist.

Deputy chief of the Presidential Administration in charge of media policies Komil Allamjonov, rated the degree of freedom of speech in the country at 5.5 points out of 10.

“Because there is still a lot to be done. As for the changes, in 2016 they were granted freedom of speech and openness was declared. Journalists and bloggers began their free activities. Now a journalistic culture and ethical behavior of journalists are gradually being formed. This process has now begun,” he said.

In early March, journalists and social activists appealed to the president speaking of "hidden but severe censorship" and noted that they were still facing serious obstacles, pressure and intimidation."