On December 17, 2024, Uzbekistan hosted a ceremony to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions and present their translation into the Uzbek Latin script. The event highlighted international collaboration and aimed to enhance public understanding of humanitarian law. Dignitaries stressed the significance of these conventions in fostering a legal culture aligned with human rights.
On December 17, 2024, a significant ceremony was conducted in Uzbekistan to mark the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions and the introduction of their translation into the Uzbek language using the Latin script. Organized by the National Human Rights Center of the Republic of Uzbekistan in collaboration with the Embassy of Switzerland and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), this event highlighted the transition from Cyrillic to Latin script of official texts.
More than 50 dignitaries attended the ceremony, including members of the Legislative Chamber and the Senate, representatives from governmental bodies, international organizations, media, academia, and the diplomatic community. This gathering reaffirmed the shared commitment to International Humanitarian Law and framed discussions around human rights and legal principles.
Academician Akmal Saidov, Director of the National Human Rights Center, emphasized the importance of the Geneva Conventions, stating, “The Geneva Conventions form the cornerstone of International Humanitarian Law. Their translation into Uzbek using Latin script is a crucial step towards enhancing the legal culture of our society and ensuring that every citizen has access to the fundamental norms of humanism.”
Ambassador Konstantin Obolensky remarked on Switzerland’s historic involvement in promoting the Geneva Conventions, stating, “Switzerland is a strong advocate of international law… As high contracting party of the Geneva Conventions, Switzerland deeply values Uzbekistan’s dedication to disseminating and implementing the principles of International Humanitarian Law.”
Biljana Milosevic, the Head of the ICRC Regional Delegation in Central Asia, reaffirmed the importance of humanitarian principles, declaring, “The principles of International Humanitarian Law are increasingly pertinent in today’s world. The ICRC is committed to promoting these principles globally, including in Uzbekistan.”
The Geneva Conventions, established on August 12, 1949, serve as essential legal frameworks aimed at ensuring humane treatment during armed conflicts. The recent translation into Latin script will greatly facilitate the understanding of these conventions among the Uzbek populace.
The event featured a video presentation and a photo exhibition titled “Dialogues on Humanity,” which illustrated the humanitarian significance of the Geneva Conventions. The official unveiling of the transliteration was a key moment, symbolizing Uzbekistan’s dedication to adhering to international humanitarian standards.
Discussions at the event focused on advancing education regarding International Humanitarian Law and human rights, highlighting participants’ eagerness to collaborate on initiatives that promote humanitarian values and principles in Uzbekistan’s legal landscape.
The ceremony commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions in Uzbekistan marked a pivotal moment in the country’s commitment to international humanitarian standards. The translation of these conventions into the Uzbek language using Latin script not only reflects a significant cultural shift but also enhances access to essential legal norms. Through collaborative efforts with international partners, Uzbekistan emphasizes its dedication to promoting human rights and humanitarian values.
Original Source: www.icrc.org
