UN labels Gulnara Karimova’s detention unlawful, Uzbekistan disputes allegations

The group concluded that Karimova’s imprisonment is arbitrary and violates international law. This conclusion was based on two categories of arbitrary detention:

1. Lack of legal grounds for her initial detention, as she was arrested in February 2014 without a warrant or legal justification and held under house arrest for 18 months before being brought before a judge.
2. Serious violations of the right to a fair trial, including lack of access to legal counsel, closed-door trials without justification, and failure to inform her promptly of charges.

The Working Group found insufficient evidence to conclude that her detention was politically motivated. According to the UN, her imprisonment violates Articles 3, 8, 9, and 11 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as well as Articles 2, 9, and 14 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

In response, the Uzbek government released an official statement, expressing concern that the UN opinion was based on one-sided and subjective information provided by the source party.

“The government of Uzbekistan did submit an official response, which was not considered due to procedural deadlines. This undermines the principles of objectivity and impartiality that UN bodies are expected to uphold,” the statement read.

The Uzbek authorities emphasized that all criminal proceedings against Gulnara Karimova were conducted strictly in accordance with national criminal and procedural law, and in line with Uzbekistan’s international obligations, including those under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

The government asserts that Karimova’s rights to legal defense and a fair trial were fully respected at all stages of the legal process.

“Ms. Karimova was allowed to appoint legal counsel of her choosing or be provided one according to established procedures. She had full access to case materials, the right to appeal decisions, and confidential communication with her lawyers,” the statement said.

It added that all court rulings were handed down by competent judicial authorities based on sufficient evidence proving her guilt in serious and particularly serious crimes such as tax evasion, money laundering, illegal appropriation of state property, fraud, and other offenses that caused substantial damage to the state.

The government categorically rejected claims of “arbitrary detention” in 2014, of “extended house arrest,” and allegations of a so-called “kitchen trial,” stating these were inaccurate and not reflective of reality. All legal actions and court proceedings, it insisted, were carried out in full compliance with legal standards. Karimova, it added, retains the right to appeal her convictions through legal channels.

The statement also firmly denied any political motivation behind the case.

“Uzbekistan faithfully fulfills its international human rights commitments and remains open to constructive cooperation with UN mechanisms, including special procedures. The government reserves the right to take further steps to protect its reputation on the international stage and to clarify accurate information for all interested parties,” the statement concluded.