Uzbekistan: AI Regulation – Legal Framework, Compliance Obligations, and Practical Implications
On January 21, 2026, Uzbekistan’s Law No. ZRU-1115 (the Law) entered into force, marking a significant milestone as it positions Uzbekistan among the first Central Asian jurisdictions to establish a dedicated AI regulatory framework.
Overview of the Legislation
This newly adopted regulation represents an initial step towards integrating artificial intelligence into the legal landscape. While it is not a comprehensive regulation, it lays the groundwork for future legislation concerning AI.
Key Definitions and Provisions
The Law provides a statutory definition of artificial intelligence, describing it as technology that operates autonomously to perform tasks traditionally requiring human intelligence.
Human Oversight
A vital aspect of the regulation is the requirement for human oversight. Legally significant decisions that affect individuals’ rights and freedoms must involve human judgment rather than relying solely on AI-generated conclusions.
Administrative Liability
Organizations that engage in unlawful personal data processing through AI technologies face administrative liability. This stipulation emphasizes the importance of compliance with data protection laws.
Compliance Actions for Organizations
To align with the new legal framework, organizations operating in Uzbekistan must undertake several compliance actions:
- Conduct an inventory of all AI systems currently in use.
- Implement mechanisms for human oversight in decision-making processes.
- Enhance data protection measures to safeguard personal information.
- Establish comprehensive governance frameworks to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.
Considerations for Future Implementation
As organizations prepare for compliance, it is crucial to:
- Implement AI governance frameworks that ensure human oversight for critical decisions.
- Adhere to personal data processing requirements outlined in the Law.
- Develop robust risk management practices to avoid substantial administrative penalties.
In summary, Uzbekistan’s new AI regulatory framework represents a proactive approach to managing the complexities of artificial intelligence technology. By establishing clear compliance obligations, the Law aims to promote responsible AI development and deployment in the region.
