Islamic revival & state messaging: Uzbekistan hosted the first International Forum of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, Samarkand and Termez, with leaders discussing peace and tolerance and proposing a World Alliance of Islamic Civilisation plus digital platforms for manuscripts and museum collections. Civil society under pressure: A new CIVICUS Monitor report says Uzbekistan’s freedoms of expression, association and assembly remain tightly controlled, with continued impunity around the 2022 Karakalpakstan unrest and ongoing repression and digital crackdowns. Islamic finance reform: Uzbekistan’s Central Bank set up an Islamic Finance Council after the new Islamic banking law took effect on June 29, aiming to draft standards and regulatory guidance. Cultural diplomacy: Greece and Uzbekistan signed a 2026–2028 cooperation agreement covering heritage protection, archaeology and restoration exchanges, cinema, music, dance, theatre and cultural routes. Creative industry ties: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan discussed expanding cooperation in culture and humanitarian projects, including reciprocal cinema days and joint music and concert programs. Sports & youth culture: Uzbekistan’s presence at international sport continues, from AFC youth qualifiers coverage to Uzbekistan-linked World Cup legacy stories.