Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The use of the Uzbek language has become a widely discussed topic in Uzbekistan following a video posted by blogger Khojiakbar Nosirov (Activist), in which he expressed dissatisfaction after being addressed in Russian at a café in the capital. In response to the active public discourse, the Ministry of Justice has clarified the existing legal norms surrounding the use of the state language.

The ministry reminded the public that the main document regulating the use of the Uzbek language is the Law on the State Language. All operations within government agencies are conducted in Uzbek, with translation provided when necessary.

Similar regulations apply to documentation in enterprises and other organizations. If the majority of employees in a workplace do not speak Uzbek, other languages may be used for internal business communication.

The Ministry of Justice also emphasized the rules concerning advertising. According to the law on advertising, all advertisements in Uzbekistan must be in Uzbek, although translations into other languages are allowed for consumer convenience.

However, the ministry clarified that there are no strict legal requirements regarding the use of the Uzbek language in private conversations. This means that individuals are free to choose the language they use in personal interactions, provided it does not violate the law or interfere with professional duties.

Returning to the video that sparked the debate, Nosirov urged for more active use of Uzbek in everyday life, stating that people in Uzbekistan should speak Uzbek, particularly when both parties are ethnic Uzbeks. He stressed that he is not against speaking Russian, but believes Uzbek should be the priority.

His remarks triggered a wave of responses online. Some users supported Nosirov’s stance, arguing that the use of the native language is essential for preserving national identity. Others accused him of inciting ethnic discord, warning that such statements could deepen divisions within society.

As a result, the discussion around the use of the state language continues, reflecting the broader societal dialogue on linguistic coexistence and national unity in Uzbekistan.