Uzbekistan's upcoming ban on photographing individuals without consent sparks debate over privacy and tourism. The country's parliament voted in favor of the legislation on October 7, 2025, requiring verbal or written approval for any photography or filming. Violators face fines and camera equipment confiscation. Anzor Bukharsky, a renowned Uzbek photographer, raises concerns about the law's enforcement and its impact on crowds and incidental figures in photos. Critics argue that the ban may be motivated by scandals involving corrupt officials caught on camera. The legislation's draft, proposed in 2020, initially focused on forbidding image publication, but the current version expands to include 'capture and storage.' Uzbekistan's tourism industry, attracting millions annually, faces potential challenges as younger, adventurous tourists seek to capture unique experiences. The ban's impact on independent journalists and activists is a concern, with calls for the law not to be misused for repression. Despite the law's potential enforcement challenges, it highlights the evolving relationship between privacy, technology, and public spaces.
