United Nations Special Rapporteur on adequate housing, Balakrishnan Rajagopal, will conduct an official visit to Uzbekistan from August 19 to 30. This visit aims to assess the country’s housing policies and challenges, particularly in terms of affordability, accessibility, and the issue of forced evictions.
Balakrishnan Rajagopal
During his visit, Rajagopal will focus on key areas such as the affordability of housing prices for all segments of the population, examining how different groups access housing and how these provisions align with human rights standards. Additionally, he will review how housing decisions are influenced by factors like climate change and will explore the extent to which residents are involved in urban development planning and decision-making processes.
The visit will cover multiple regions of Uzbekistan, including Tashkent, Jizzakh, Samarkand, and Bukhara, along with surrounding areas. Rajagopal plans to visit student dormitories, shelters for those fleeing domestic violence or those left homeless, and other facilities. His agenda includes meetings with national and local government officials, judges, residents, and members of the business community to gain comprehensive insights into Uzbekistan’s housing landscape.
Balakrishnan Rajagopal will hold a press conference towards the end of his visit and is expected to submit a detailed report to the UN Human Rights Council in March 2025. This report will include findings and recommendations aimed at improving housing rights and policies in Uzbekistan.