The Aarhus Convention: A framework for transforming environmental governance in Uzbekistan

Abstract This study examines the potential impact of the Aarhus Convention on environmental governance in Uzbekistan ‐ a country facing significant challenges related to environmental degradation and climate change. By employing a mixed‐methods approach – including policy reviews, legal analysis, and comparative studies with Kazakhstan – the research evaluates the alignment of Uzbekistan's national legislation and enforcement mechanisms with the Convention's provisions on access to information, public participation, and access to justice. The findings reveal critical gaps in Uzbekistan's current environmental governance framework and emphasise the importance of the Aarhus Convention to advance transparency, accountability, and public engagement. The study offers actionable recommendations to foster a more sustainable, inclusive, and participatory model of environmental governance while strengthening enforcement mechanisms.