ANALYSIS OF THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SMART CITIES IN THE REPUBLIC OF UZBEKISTAN: CURRENT STATE AND PROSPECTS FOR IMPROVEMENT

Abstract

The article examines the current state of the legal framework for the development of smart cities in the Republic of Uzbekistan in the context of digital transformation and the implementation of the “Uzbekistan-2030” Strategy. A comprehensive analysis of the current legislation was conducted using comparative legal, systemic, and structural-functional analysis, as well as content analysis and expert evaluation methods. Key regulatory documents, including the “Smart City” Technology Implementation Concept, the “Digital Uzbekistan – 2030” Strategy, and other relevant legal acts, were reviewed. It has been established that the regulatory framework in the field of smart cities is at an initial stage of formation and is characterized by fragmentation, a lack of a systematic approach, and insufficient consistency between various legal acts. Critical gaps were identified in the regulation of urban data processing, smart contracts, and cybersecurity of critical infrastructure, as well as in the legal support of public-private partnerships in the digital sphere. Special attention is paid to the analysis of state programs and the institutional basis of smart city management, as well as the comparison of national regulation with international experience (Singapore, UAE, South Korea, and EU countries). Based on a comparative analysis, priority areas for improving legislation have been identified, including the development of a special law on smart cities and the modernization of traditional civil law institutions to form an effective legal framework for sustainable development.