A Study of the Values of the “Independence Generation” in Post-Soviet Central Asia: Focusing on the case of Uzbekistan during the Karimov regime (1991-2016)

Abstract

This study examines the values of the youth in post-Soviet Uzbekistan. Those born during the era of strong nationalism following Uzbekistan’s independence in 1991 grew up under an education system conducted in Uzbek rather than Russian. This study identifies this group as the “Independence Generation” or the “youth generation” of Uzbekistan and explores how their values differ from those of their parents’ generation, often referred to as the “socialist generation.” The analysis draws on statistical data from the 2008 report “The Youth of the New Uzbekistan: Life Positions and Value Priorities” (published by Ijtimoiy Fikr). The  priorities and values of the Uzbek Independence Generation in their personal lives directly shape their core values in broader social contexts. The study reveals that the main values cherished by this generation include health, love, family happiness, interesting and well-paying work, and friendships. Young people emphasize intelligence, responsibility, and self-confidence as essential qualities for realizing universal human values. Additionally, they strive for success in life and believe they can achieve it in fields of personal interest. About half of the youth surveyed had long-term goals, such as running their own business, pursuing education, or creating a happy family. However, the study also identifies challenges faced by the youth, with approximately half already experiencing material prosperity but also expressing concerns about economic insecurity, difficulties in starting a family, and fear of unemployment. The Independence Generation views a successful life as one grounded in moral actions and attitudes, with family formation and child-rearing seen as central life goals. Given Uzbekistan’s youthful population, with an average age of just 27.8 years, the future of the nation will likely be shaped by this generation. The academic significance of this study lies in its potential to inform further research on the values and identity of Uzbek youth. It also aims to serve as foundational material for comparative studies on the Independence Generations across the five Central Asian countries that gained  independence during the same period.