Country Profile: Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan, situated in the heart of Central Asia, is notable for its diverse economy and youthful population. Following its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the country has made strides in agricultural diversification while enhancing its mineral and petroleum exports. The governance of Uzbekistan has transitioned under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who has fostered better international relationships and implemented sweeping reforms since taking office in 2016. With a mix of authoritarian governance and a growing economy, Uzbekistan is positioned to play a pivotal role in regional dynamics.
Geography
Uzbekistan is a landlocked country located in Central Asia, bordered by five countries including Afghanistan to the south and Kazakhstan to the north. The nation covers a total area of 447,400 sq km and features predominantly flat and rolling sandy deserts as well as fertile river valleys. The climate is characterized by long, hot summers and mild winters, with the significant geographic feature being the shrinking Aral Sea.
- 6,893 km of land boundaries connecting with 5 neighboring countries
- 58.1% of land used for agriculture (2023)
- Located at 41°N, 64°E
People and Society
Uzbekistan has a population of approximately 36.5 million people (2024 estimate), with a majority identifying as Uzbek (83.8%). The country features a predominantly young demographic, with a median age of 28.9 years. Urbanization is significant, with about 50.5% of the population living in urban areas as of 2023. The national language is Uzbek, and the society has a predominant Muslim demographic, with 88% identifying as such.
- 20.5 births per 1,000 population (2024)
- Life expectancy is 76.2 years (2024)
- 100% literacy rate (2022)
Economy
Uzbekistan is classified as a lower-middle-income economy with a focus on natural gas, cotton, and gold exports. The GDP is projected at $379.989 billion in 2024, reflecting ongoing reforms aimed at reducing state ownership in favor of foreign investment. The workforce is primarily engaged in agriculture, industry, and services, which together form the backbone of the economy.
- GDP growth rate of 6.5% (2024 estimate)
- 4.5% unemployment rate (2024)
- 11% of the population lives below the poverty line (2023)
Government
Uzbekistan operates as a presidential republic, characterized by a highly centralized and authoritarian system. The current president, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, was re-elected with 87% of the vote in 2023. The government structure includes a bicameral legislature and a judiciary system primarily influenced by the executive branch.
- Independence declared on 1 September 1991
- 18 years is the minimum voting age
- Constitution adopted on 8 December 1992
Military and Security
The Armed Forces of Uzbekistan include the army, air defense, and the National Guard, with an estimated 50,000 active personnel. The country maintains defense ties with Russia and other regional allies while ensuring internal security and border control against threats such as terrorism.
- Military expenditures were 2.8% of GDP in 2019
- Compulsory military service for males aged 18-27 (2024)
- Active cooperation with international military exercises
Energy
Uzbekistan has a robust energy sector, primarily reliant on fossil fuels, with 90.8% of electricity generated from such sources. The total installed generating capacity is 17.901 million kW (2023), and the country has significant natural gas and coal reserves.
- 43.249 billion cubic meters of natural gas produced (2023)
- 100% of the population has electricity access (2022)
- 64,000 bbl/day oil production (2023)
Environment
Uzbekistan faces several environmental challenges, including desertification, water pollution, and soil salination due to heavy pesticide use. The shrinking Aral Sea poses significant ecological concerns, and the government is a participant in various international environmental treaties.
- 48.87 billion cubic meters of renewable water resources (2022)
- 110.992 million metric tons of CO2 emissions (2023)
- 4 million tons of municipal solid waste generated annually (2024)
Transportation
The transportation network in Uzbekistan includes a mix of railways and air transit, with 4,642 km of railways and 74 airports planned by 2025. The air transport sector facilitates connectivity within and outside the country.
- 37.5 million mobile subscriptions (2023)
- 10.8 million fixed broadband subscriptions (2023)
Communications
Uzbekistan has a growing telecommunications sector, with a high mobile penetration rate and increasing internet access. Approximately 89% of the population uses the internet, reflecting significant digital engagement.
- 103 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants for mobile cellular (2022)
- 6.147 million fixed-line telephone subscriptions (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 36,520,593 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 447,400 sq km | |
| GDP | $379.989 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.5% | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 20.5 births/1,000 people | 2024 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 76.2 years | 2024 estimate |
| Literacy Rate | 100% | 2022 estimate |
| Energy Consumption Per Capita | 55.305 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
| Urban Population | 50.5% | 2023 |
| Military Personnel | ~50,000 | 2025 estimate |
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