IMPLEMENTATION OF THE RAMSAR CONVENTION IN THE LEGISLATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF UZBEKISTAN

Abstract

This article examines the implementation of the Ramsar Convention within the legal framework of the Republic of Uzbekistan through normative-legal, institutional, and comparative legal approaches. The study aims to assess the level and effectiveness of integrating the Convention’s provisions into the national legal system. It focuses on key aspects such as the designation of wetlands of international importance, the maintenance of their ecological character, and the operationalization of the principle of wise use. The findings indicate that Uzbekistan has established a formal regulatory framework in this field; however, its practical implementation is constrained by several systemic challenges. In particular, the concepts of “ecological character” and “wise use” lack precise legal definition and measurable criteria within national legislation. Furthermore, insufficient coordination is observed between the system of protected natural areas and the broader body of water and environmental law. It is also noted that existing monitoring and governance mechanisms are limited by institutional and methodological constraints, which affects their overall effectiveness. The author proposes a normative interpretation of “wise use” based on ecological integrity, sustainable load, the precautionary principle, adaptive management, and cross-sectoral coordination. The study substantiates the need to institutionalize these approaches through an integrated framework linking indicators, management regimes, and legal consequences.