Non-governmental organizations initiated a two-day event for journalists of print media, which was dedicated to role of mass media in covering state policy in supporting and developing citizens’ self-government bodies (mahallas).

The event was organized by the Public Fund on supporting and developing independent print mass media and information agencies of Uzbekistan in coopeation with the Mahalla Charity Foundation and Institute on studying civil society.

MPs of Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis, experts and specialists, as well as scholars participated at the event, which briefed journalists with the Concept on further deepening democratic reforms and formation civil society in the country, proposed by the Uzbek President Islam Karimov.

The event noted that mahalla, unique form of social self-governance institute, has been operating in Central Asia, first of all in Uzbekistan. It was noted that mahalla is more than collective for Uzbeks. Uzbekistan paid special attention to development of mahalla institute during the independence years.

MP of Legislative Chamber H. Ruzmetov said that mahalla conducted two functions in early years of Indpendence and now the institute carries out over 30 functions, which were earlier implemented by local state bodies. He said that Uzbekistan adopted several laws in 2002-2008, which created favourable conditions and preferences for functioning of mahallas.

MP underlined that the media outlets should cover developments and trends in mahallas in their articles and explain meanings of legislative initiatives of the Uzbek President, which open new opportunities for mahallas.