THE NATIONAL SPORTS SYSTEM AND THE OLYMPIC MOVEMENT: THE EXPERIENCE OF UZBEKISTAN

Abstract

This article analyzes the development of the Olympic movement in Uzbekistan and the establishment of the National Olympic Committee of Uzbekistan. The evolution of the Olympic movement in Uzbekistan can be divided into two distinct stages, each characterized by its unique features. The first period (1952–1992) corresponds to the era when Uzbekistan was part of the former Soviet Union. During this time, Olympic sports in Uzbekistan functioned as part of the centralized Soviet sports system. The country did not have the right to participate independently in international sports events, nor was it a member of international sports organizations. Sports relations with Eastern and Western countries were conducted strictly under the supervision and authorization of the Soviet government. The second period (from 1992 to the present) marks the emergence and development of an independent Olympic structure within the Republic of Uzbekistan. It was during this phase that the National Olympic Committee of Uzbekistan was established, enabling the country to participate in the Olympic Games under its own flag.

The article also highlights government attention to physical education, Uzbekistan’s initial participation in the Olympic Games, the main objectives and functions of the National Olympic Committee, the country’s relations with international organizations, reforms implemented to develop sports, the achievements of Uzbek athletes on the global stage, and the role of Uzbekistan in international sports.