On December 17, 2024, Uzbekistan held a ceremony marking the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions and presented their translation into Latin script. The event featured discussions among lawmakers, diplomats, and humanitarian organizations, emphasizing the significance of IHL in today’s context. This translation aims to enhance legal awareness and public accessibility to fundamental humanitarian principles.
On December 17, 2024, an event was held by the National Human Rights Center of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in partnership with the Swiss Embassy and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Regional Delegation in Central Asia. This gathering celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions and marked the presentation of their translation into Uzbek, utilizing the Latin script, reflecting Uzbekistan’s recent change from the Cyrillic alphabet.
The event was attended by over 50 participants, including lawmakers from both chambers of the Oliy Majlis, representatives from government agencies, and members of the diplomatic community, media, and academia. Akmal Saidov, the Director of the National Human Rights Center, emphasized that the Geneva Conventions are fundamental to International Humanitarian Law (IHL), stating that the translation enhances legal cultural awareness within society.
Ambassador Konstantin Obolensky recognized Switzerland’s historical contributions to the Geneva Conventions, asserting the importance of adherence to international law during uncertain times. He reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment to collaborate with Uzbekistan in advancing human rights and humanitarian values globally.
Biljana Milosevic, Head of the ICRC Regional Delegation in Central Asia, remarked on the relevance of humanitarian principles today, commending Uzbekistan for its proactive stance in promoting IHL. The newly translated documents in Latin script aim to facilitate wider access and understanding among the Uzbek populace.
The event included a video presentation and a photo exhibition titled “Dialogues on Humanity,” highlighting the humanitarian essence of the Geneva Conventions. The official unveiling of their transliteration into the Latin alphabet illustrated Uzbekistan’s dedication to international humanitarian standards and the promotion of fundamental rights even amidst conflict.
Participants conversed on vital issues concerning IHL and human rights, expressing their willingness to engage in further collaborations that promote humanitarian principles. The discussions underscored the essential need for public education surrounding these laws and values.
The 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions was commemorated in Uzbekistan with a significant event that facilitated the translation of these pivotal legal instruments into the Uzbek Latin script. With prominent figures from various sectors involved, the initiative not only showcases Uzbekistan’s commitment to international humanitarian standards but also highlights the importance of public education on humanitarian law. The collaboration among Uzbekistan, Switzerland, and the ICRC demonstrates a united effort to promote human rights and humanitarian principles on a global scale.
Original Source: www.icrc.org
