THE STATE OF THE RELIABLE INFORMATION ENVIRONMENT IN UZBEKISTAN AND ITS ROLE IN INTERNATIONAL INDICATORS

Abstract

This article examines the impact of the expansion of the information environment, the development of mass media, and digital platforms in Uzbekistan on public opinion formation and the establishment of a reliable information environment. The study is based on the Agenda-Setting Theory and the concept of media pluralism, which explain the role of media in contemporary society. In addition, a comparative analysis of Uzbekistan’s media environment and press freedom is conducted using RSF and Freedom House international rankings. The findings indicate that alongside the increasing number of information sources, issues related to information reliability, media literacy, and combating disinformation are becoming increasingly important.