Tashkent, September 16, 2024 – The Europe Today: An International Anti-Corruption Media Forum was held in Tashkent, an initiative spearheaded by the President of Uzbekistan during a ceremony recognizing recipients of the prestigious International Anti-Corruption Award.
The event gathered distinguished figures from various sectors, including Dr. Michael Wimmer, Deputy Head of Mission and Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Germany in Uzbekistan. During his address at the forum, Dr. Wimmer commended the progress made in Uzbekistan’s anti-corruption reforms and emphasized the crucial role of journalists and bloggers in advancing transparency and integrity.
“We are proud to collaborate with the Anti-Corruption Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan in supporting anti-corruption reforms,” said Dr. Wimmer. He highlighted the project “Improving Governance in Uzbekistan – Inclusive Corruption Prevention,” co-funded by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and implemented under the leadership of the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).
The project aims to strengthen integrity within public institutions while promoting a culture of zero tolerance towards corruption. According to Dr. Wimmer, enhancing the capacity of media professionals, civil society organizations, and activists is a vital component of the initiative. He stressed the importance of an informed and engaged public, supported by an independent media landscape that operates responsibly.
“Effectively addressing corruption relies on empowering media organizations and journalists with the tools and knowledge necessary to investigate and report on corruption, despite the complexities of their environment,” Dr. Wimmer added.
The forum underscored the critical role of the media in driving anti-corruption efforts, reinforcing the need for collaboration between public institutions and the press in creating a more transparent and accountable society.
