Government introduces stricter rules for mass event safety amid rising incidents

The Cabinet of Ministers has introduced additional safety obligations for event organizers to ensure visitor security. The relevant decree has been published in the Lex.uz database.

The preamble of the decree notes an “increase in situations that jeopardize public safety and the safety of citizens.” To prevent such incidents, amendments have been made to the rules for organizing events.

Event organizers must consider not only the safety of participants when selecting a location but also the prevention of emergencies and the evacuation of citizens in case of threats.

When assessing the venue's readiness for an event, a working group is required to inspect the location with regard to natural hazards, industrial accidents, and weather forecasts. This information must be included in the site inspection report.

The venue’s administration is required to inform attendees about the evacuation procedures before the event begins. They must also develop an announcement to prevent panic and disruptions during the evacuation.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs and the National Guard are tasked with installing barriers to block vehicles near the entrances of the event venue, in coordination with the organizers and venue administration.

At the end of June, the Cabinet of Ministers banned the free distribution of goods at mass events. Prior to this, all giveaway campaigns were canceled by the Tashkent City Police Department following a stampede in Ashgabat Park on June 1.

Marketing and PR experts have criticized the effectiveness of bans as a way to control crowds. Instead, they suggest introducing "clear and strict requirements" for mass events.