Uzbekistan's digital transformation is gaining momentum, with the government prioritizing the development of e-government services and digital public platforms. However, this rapid digitalization brings with it an increased risk of cyber threats. Recognizing the need for robust cybersecurity measures, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) has initiated a comprehensive training program aimed at bolstering the nation's cyber defenses.
From July 14 to August 21, 2025, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Technologies and the Noventiq Education Center, is conducting a series of specialized trainings for 70 information security specialists from various government institutions. This initiative aligns with the Presidential Decree of the Republic of Uzbekistan titled "On Measures Aimed at Further Strengthening Activities to Combat Crimes Committed through the Use of Information Technologies."
Training Focus Areas
The program is structured around three critical domains of cyber defense:
- Ethical Hacking: Participants delve into the methodologies employed by cyber attackers, simulating real-world threat scenarios to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities proactively.
- Linux Security: Given that over 90% of servers globally operate on Linux systems, this module emphasizes system hardening, access control, log management, and addressing common threats within Linux environments.
- Windows Server Security: This segment focuses on fortifying server infrastructures against both internal and external threats, covering security configurations, monitoring, and preventive measures against digital attacks.
Strategic Importance
Sergei Sizov, Officer-in-Charge of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, emphasized the necessity of practical experience in addressing digital risks. He stated, "To effectively respond to today's digital risks, professionals need more than just theoretical knowledge—they need practical experience. Programs like this allow specialists to prepare for real-world challenges. It's an important step toward ensuring that digital infrastructure remains resilient and secure."
This training is part of a broader OSCE initiative aimed at enhancing national capacities to combat cybercrime and protect digital data. Specifically, it falls under the OSCE project "Development of National Capacities to Counter Cyber/ICT Threats," which focuses on elevating the professional skills of government personnel and aligning national practices with international standards and best practices.
Broader Context
This initiative is not an isolated effort. In recent years, the OSCE has been actively involved in strengthening Uzbekistan's cybersecurity framework. For instance, in October 2024, the OSCE organized a workshop in Tashkent focusing on building a national cyber incident classification system. This system is crucial for prioritizing and managing cyber incidents, especially those affecting critical infrastructure. The workshop brought together 25 cyber/ICT security experts from the Cybersecurity Centre of Uzbekistan and international experts who shared their experiences. The emphasis was on creating a robust system for classifying and managing cyber incidents to enhance crisis communication and management.
Furthermore, in April 2025, the OSCE launched a national training course for judges in Tashkent titled "Cybercrime: from Detection to Court Judgment." This training aimed to strengthen judicial capacity and promote effective, rights-based justice in the face of evolving digital threats. Discussions included international and national legal frameworks on cybercrime, comparative judicial practices, and challenges in the classification and prosecution of cybercrimes.
Critical Analysis
The OSCE's comprehensive approach to cybersecurity training in Uzbekistan is commendable. By addressing various facets of cyber defense—from technical training for IT specialists to legal education for the judiciary—the initiative ensures a holistic enhancement of the nation's cyber resilience.
However, the success of such programs hinges on several factors:
- Sustainability: Continuous training and capacity-building efforts are essential. Cyber threats evolve rapidly, and a one-time training program may not suffice. Establishing ongoing education and refresher courses will be crucial.
- Resource Allocation: Adequate resources, both human and financial, must be allocated to implement the knowledge and skills acquired during these trainings effectively.
- Inter-agency Collaboration: Cybersecurity is a cross-cutting issue that requires collaboration among various government agencies, the private sector, and international partners. Ensuring seamless cooperation will enhance the effectiveness of these initiatives.
- Public Awareness: While training government personnel is vital, raising public awareness about cybersecurity best practices is equally important. A well-informed public can act as the first line of defense against cyber threats.
Source: Mirage News OSCE Launches Cybersecurity Training for Uzbekistan
