THE CURRENT STATE OF ORGANIZATIONAL AND LEGAL REGULATION OF ECOTOURISM ACTIVITIES IN THE REPUBLIC OF UZBEKISTAN
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47390/SPR1342V5SI11Y2025N52Keywords:
ecotourism, legal regulation, sustainable development, natural resources, environmental protection, biodiversity, public-private partnership.Abstract
This article examines the current state of organizational and legal regulation of ecotourism activities in the Republic of Uzbekistan. It is noted that the development of ecotourism is a priority area of state policy aimed at the sustainable use of natural resources, the preservation of biological diversity, and increasing the country's investment attractiveness. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of the regulatory framework, which includes more than 30 laws and approximately 250 by-laws governing the sphere of ecology and tourism. Key documents include Presidential Resolution No. PP-21 "On measures to accelerate the development of ecotourism in the Republic of Uzbekistan" and the Strategy for the Conservation of Biodiversity until 2028. The article describes the institutional mechanisms of state support, tax and customs incentives, as well as measures to stimulate entrepreneurship and the involvement of the local population in ecotourism projects. The author concludes that a solid legislative framework exists, but emphasizes its fragmentation and the need for further systematization, harmonization with international sustainable development standards, and the expansion of public-private partnership mechanisms. Improving the legal regulation of ecotourism will help ensure a balance between economic growth and the preservation of Uzbekistan's natural capital, strengthening its position as a hub for sustainable tourism in Central Asia.
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