National Guard’s protection unit reorganized as new MIA security department

Uzbekistan has restructured its national security protection system, transferring the National Guard’s Main Directorate of Security to the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) and establishing it as a new Security Department. The reform is aimed at modernizing protection services, introducing artificial intelligence tools, and strengthening security at key facilities across the country.

The changes were introduced under a presidential decree on improving the effectiveness of security activities within the internal affairs system. Under the decision, the former National Guard unit has been fully reorganized as the Security Department under the MIA, along with its regional branches.

According to the decree, the new department will be responsible for a wide range of protection services, including:

safeguarding state-owned, critical and classified facilities, as well as educational institutions, private property, trade and service centers, entertainment venues, and construction sites under contractual arrangements;
ensuring internal order and access-control regimes at protected sites;
expanding the use of modern information and communication tools and artificial intelligence technologies in security operations.

The government also plans a significant technological upgrade. Starting 1 January 2026, face-recognition systems will be gradually installed at the entry and exit points of banks, large industrial enterprises, local government offices, and other major facilities under protection.

Officials state that the reform seeks to enhance the efficiency of protection services, strengthen public order, and improve overall security management through advanced digital technologies.

Prepared by: Дониёр Тухсинов

#security #National Guard #MIA