The forthcoming parliamentary elections in Uzbekistan on 26 December 2004 will significantly add to the efforts of the Uzbek Government on further liberalization and democratization of the society.

The parliamentary elections will have a number of implications on the process of political and social reforms. Above all, the elections will create the first bicameral and professional parliament in Uzbekistan. The bicameral parliament is part of the Uzbek Government?s endeavors to encourage democracy and transparency in the society.

It is worth to mention the necessary amendments and changes have already been introduced to the national legislation on elections. At present Uzbekistan?s legislation on elections fully corresponds with international standards, including those of outlined in Copenhagen Act of the OSCE on human dimensions.

The legislative reforms on elections will have resulted in significant positive changes. For the first, the formation of bicameral parliament gives strong impetus to the work of the parliament and strengthens its superior role in the society.

For the second, according to the new provisions, representatives of state administrative bodies (city mayor, Administration of district or province and etc.) cannot run for a seat at the parliament. It assists to ensure the effective and balanced power distribution between the legislative and executive bodies.

Another important aspect of the parliamentary reforms could be seen in their positive implications on the process of formation of civil society. For instance, according to the new legislation, the main actors of the elections will be political parties and initiative groups, and also the self-governed bodies. Apart from encouraging the atmosphere of competition during the elections it will also strengthen the political consciousness in the society.