THE ROLE OF SOCIAL PARTNERSHIP IN PUBLIC GOVERNANCE: THE PLACE OF THE "THIRD SECTOR" IN UZBEKISTAN

This paper examines the conceptual and practical significance of social partnership in the framework of modern public administration, with particular attention to the evolving role of the “third sector” in Uzbekistan. As governance systems worldwide move toward more participatory and transparent models, the integration of civil society organizations (CSOs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community-based associations has become increasingly essential. The study is theoretical and analytical in nature, but contextualized with an overview of Uzbekistan’s legal and institutional reforms between 2016 and 2024. These include the adoption of the “Law on Social Partnership,” the “Concept for the Development of Civil Society (2021–2025),” and the introduction of public councils under state agencies. The findings suggest that effective collaboration between the state, business sector, and the third sector contributes to social innovation, citizen participation, and policy accountability. The paper concludes that the consolidation of social partnership mechanisms is a decisive factor in shaping a sustainable model of public governance in Uzbekistan and can serve as a replicable framework for other developing states.