Uzbekistan Refutes UN Claims on Gulnara Karimova’s Case
The Government of Uzbekistan has issued an official statement in response to the statement of the UN Human Rights Council’s Working Group on Arbitrary Detention concerning the criminal prosecution of Gulnara Karimova.
Government expressed concern that the opinion was based solely on information provided by one source, while Uzbekistan’s official response was disregarded due to procedural deadlines.
The statement criticises what it describes as a lack of objectivity and impartiality, noting that such an approach undermines the fundamental principles expected of UN mechanisms. Uzbekistan reaffirmed its openness to international cooperation but insisted on engagement rooted in mutual respect, international law and the avoidance of double standards.
Legal Process and Rights Observed Throughout
The government emphasised that all criminal proceedings against Karimova were conducted in strict accordance with national criminal and procedural laws, as well as international commitments including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Karimova, it said, was guaranteed the right to a fair trial and legal defence at all stages, with full access to counsel, case materials and the ability to appeal verdicts. Judicial decisions were based on substantial evidence confirming serious offences such as tax evasion, money laundering, embezzlement of state property and large-scale fraud.
Denial of Political Motives and UN-Backed Asset Recovery
Claims of arbitrary detention in 2014, a so-called kitchen trial, and extended house arrest were dismissed as unfounded. All procedural actions, the statement asserts, were lawful and met required legal standards.
Uzbek government strongly denied any political motivation in the case, stating that legal proceedings were solely evidence-based and did not target Karimova’s political status or economic activities.
The statement also referenced the 2022 creation of the Vision 2030 Fund, a joint initiative between Switzerland and Uzbekistan. The fund allocates assets recovered from Karimova’s criminal proceeds to support Uzbekistan’s reform agenda and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, managed through a UN Multi-Partner Trust Fund.
Uzbekistan reaffirmed its commitment to human rights and constructive engagement with UN mechanisms, while reserving the right to further defend its international reputation and share accurate information with relevant stakeholders.
