Restaurants that do not serve alcohol in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, have been closed down by officials. Officials stated these restaurants could reopen if they agreed to sell liquor. This is part of a plan to curb freedom of religion for Muslims in Uzbekistan. It is part of what seems to be a government concern about a wave of “religious radicalization” in Uzbekistan. Many restaurant owners claimed their restaurants to be Halal, and said that they were shut down after surprise raids by police, health and safety inspectors, and tax officials. Owners claimed that these intruders didn’t present any official documentation and were not given any official reason for their restaurants being temporarily shut down. These restaurants do not serve alcohol, offer a prayer room for diners, and serve halal food. 

Under Islam drinking alcohol is banned, but it is legal in Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan is a secular Muslim-majority country. These shutdowns have occurred during criticisms of the government backsliding on its promises to improve religious freedoms. Restaurant owners were told to obtain a license to sell alcohol and open a small bar in their establishments, then they could continue with their business “without problem”. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev had been credited for ending restrictions on religious freedoms put in place by the former president, but recently they seem to be backsliding on his promises. It seems that the government continues to view religion as a threat and pushes these restrictions on peaceful communities. 

Najiballah, Farangis. “‘Serve Alcohol or Go Bust!’: Halal Restaurants in Uzbek Capital Closed in Crackdown.” RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty, RFE/RL, 24 Oct. 2023, www.rferl.org/a/uzbekistan-restaurants-halal-alcohol/32651720.html.