Is Analytics Becoming an Independent Sector in Uzbekistan?

The analytical environment in Uzbekistan is gradually emerging from a state of closedness and limited access, although much remains to be done. What is the value of analytics? Who are the main players, and what challenges exist? A column by Abror Yusupov, Deputy Director of the Center for the Analysis of Democratic Processes.

The collection, processing, and analysis of information, risk assessment, and the development of recommendations are among the most important aspects of analytics. In Uzbekistan, the analytical environment is gradually moving beyond its former state of closedness and limited access, but much still remains to be done. What is the value of analytics? Who are the main actors in this field, and what challenges does it face? Abror Yusupov, Deputy Director of the Center for the Analysis of Democratic Processes, PhD in Political Science, and Associate Professor, shares his perspective.

The Importance of Analytical Activity

It is impossible to imagine reform processes without active analytical work. The significance of analytics in properly assessing the current situation and developing optimal management decisions can hardly be overstated.

Public discussion has become more substantive in recent years thanks to the growth of expert activity. New forms and methods of analysis have emerged, including foresight studies and predictive analytics. Big data and artificial intelligence tools have opened up new opportunities.

Objective and reliable analytics help the government make the most effective decisions and design the future. Analysis is also needed by society, which seeks answers to many pressing issues.

At the professional level, analytics is carried out by specialized centers, which reflect the level of maturity of a country’s intellectual landscape. These are generally divided into three main types: academic centers (based at universities), state centers (including those within government bodies), and non-state centers (including NGOs).

It is also important to note the growing influence of independent analysts, as well as the journalistic community and bloggers who draw attention to pressing issues of public concern. Their activity is especially noticeable when professional analytics is delayed, yet there is a public demand for explanations of particular events and processes.

In the modern world, data is called the “oil of the 21st century.” Unlike natural resources, the volume of information is growing rapidly, while most of it remains unprocessed.

At a time when it is becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish fake information from reliable facts, think tanks are called upon to bring clarity to the information environment and provide the public with objective and verified information.

The key value of analytics lies in its ability to influence decision-making processes that determine the country’s strategic course of development. It helps answer vital questions such as: where are we today and where should we be heading; what awaits us tomorrow; how should we determine the trajectory of strategic development; what is the impact of the current technological paradigm on the country’s development; and how can we meet the growing demands of all segments of society, especially the younger generation?

Challenges Facing the Field of Analytics

There are cases when even experienced analysts cannot provide accurate forecasts on a particular issue. This was evident, for example, during the pandemic, when many countries and individuals turned out to be unprepared for the changes that affected the entire planet. Of course, there are patterns, mathematical modeling, and retrospective analysis, but in practice it is not always possible to predict events and prepare realistic scenarios.

This is precisely why there is a need to create an effective and objective analytical platform for identifying and finding ways to solve the most important contemporary problems. Such a platform could unite analysts from different fields, as well as representatives of government bodies and academic circles.

Today, more than ever, there is a high demand for objective expertise and high-quality diagnostics. Calls are increasingly being made for the public to participate more actively in discussions of government decisions. Ministries and agencies publish information and analytical materials, reports, and the results of sociological studies.

However, the level of participation of academic circles in discussing conceptual and strategic documents remains insufficient.

The importance of independent analytics is particularly significant, since, being, conditionally speaking, “within society,” it is able to respond more quickly to pressing issues.

According to available estimates, there are currently about 20 non-state analytical centers in Uzbekistan. According to an analysis by the “Yuksalish” movement, around 10 non-state centers were included this year in the country’s Top 20 think tanks.

Despite the emergence of new players, the country’s analytical market is still not segmented, and a competitive environment has not yet been formed.

What is needed is the development of a полноценной ecosystem of analytical activity, including the establishment of systematic communication. It is no coincidence that people say: “Communication is the king of analytics.”

It is important to create a school of mentorship that would help form and develop analysts’ skills. According to experts in the field, given the necessary abilities — such as an analytical mindset, knowledge of modern technologies, business acumen, communication skills, and others — this takes at least two to three years. Practice shows that many experts acquire analytical skills only after beginning work in research institutes and analytical centers. In this regard, the practice of “revolving doors” is also important, whereby an expert could work at different stages of his or her career in public service, universities, and non-governmental organizations.

Another pressing issue is the creation of a unified research bank and opportunities for cross-analysis of research findings using big data tools.

Finally, efforts should be made to create a “climate of ideas” in society — an environment in which expertise is valued and intellectual dialogue is encouraged. This includes, first and foremost, institutional and critical thinking, a culture of discussion, tolerance toward opponents, and so on. Such an environment would make it possible to draw conclusions “without anger or bias” (the phrase of the ancient historian Tacitus — sine ira et studio).

Important tasks for the coming years include the dynamic development of the field of analytics, including independent analytics, strengthening its role in society, and turning expert thinking into an integral part of governance processes and decision-making.

Source: Gazeta.uz