Europe/Central Asia

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Video courtesy of the Basekz Channel

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Uzbek security forces used unjustifiable lethal force to disperse protesters on July 1 and 2 in Karakalpakstan.

Human Rights Watch has analyzed dozens of videos and photographs taken during the protests.

We found that security forces used brutal force. At least 21 people died and hundreds more suffered horrific injuries.

The Republic of Karakalpakstan is an autonomous region in Uzbekistan.

Protestors were demonstrating against proposed constitutional amendments that sought to end Karakalpakstan’s status as a self-governing region.

In response to the protests, Uzbekistan’s president Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced the amendments would be withdrawn.

Law enforcement should not use excessive force to disperse peaceful protests.

Potential lethal force should never be indiscriminately directed at crowds, but only used if there is imminent threat to life.

Uzbek authorities should effectively investigate violations against protestors and hold those responsible for serious violations, including the right to life, to account.