FOR THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF FAMILIES

FAMILY VALUES OF UZBEK CITIZENS: TRADITIONS, TRENDS, PROSPECTS

The family is not just the foundation of society — it is its soul, its strength, the living thread that connects generations.

In our country, the institution of the family has remained, for centuries, the pillar upon which traditions, upbringing, and societal stability rest. It is within the family that moral values are instilled, worldviews are shaped, and love for the homeland is nurtured. Today, in the context of rapid social changes, the preservation and development of family values have become especially relevant.

In this regard, the work of the Republican Center for the Study of Public Opinion "Ijtimoiy Fikr" holds not only scientific, but also significant public and governmental importance. The Center’s specialists conduct in-depth, multifaceted studies of societal processes and promptly raise the most pressing and sensitive issues — such as the transformation of family relationships, the stability of marriage as an institution, and the impact of tradition and social change on citizens’ lifestyles.

One of the Center’s most recent large-scale studies focused on comprehensively examining the social, cultural, and economic factors that influence the state and development of the family institution in Uzbekistan. The research covered a wide range of topics — from demographic trends and marriage models to parenting, gender roles, and the impact of external factors on family values. According to the results, most respondents view marriage as a union based on love and mutual respect; however, perceptions vary depending on age and life experience. Ideas about family in Uzbekistan exist at the intersection of traditional values and a gradual shift toward modernization. At the same time, the majority of citizens believe that despite societal changes, marriage will remain a strong foundation of society, capable of adapting to new realities without losing its significance.

The survey confirmed that the family in Uzbek society has always been — and remains — a cornerstone: a life space where personal qualities are formed, traditions are passed down, and a sense of responsibility takes root. At the same time, the research revealed a number of changes, both positive and concerning. These trends call not only for scientific reflection, but also for timely and flexible policy responses.

The study also showed that a large part of the population continues to be guided by traditional family models, where older generations serve as guardians of customs and values. However, young people are increasingly striving for independence. Some choose a secular path, while others rely on traditional national values. This reflects the living fabric of society, where past and future intertwine in the search for a sustainable balance.

Currently, Uzbek society is undergoing a kind of demographic transition: while traditional large families still make up a significant portion of the population, families with two or even one child are becoming more common. This indicates that younger generations are adopting a more rational approach to family planning. Marriage remains the primary framework for childbearing and childrearing.

When asked what makes a marriage strong, most respondents named mutual understanding, love, and respect. Other key factors for marital stability included shared goals, parental approval, financial well-being, and psychological compatibility. These answers paint a realistic and mature picture of how marriage is perceived — a union where emotional and pragmatic elements complement each other.

The study placed special focus on motivations for entering into marriage. Most citizens cited love and mutual affection as their primary reasons. However, traditional expectations — familial, societal, and religious — remain influential. This is especially evident in the importance young people place on their parents' opinions: one in three young respondents takes their mother’s opinion into account when choosing a spouse. At the same time, nearly 39% stated that choosing a life partner is strictly a personal decision. Thus, a steady trend toward independence is observed, while respect for family authority remains intact.

When it comes to choosing a partner, the most important factors were intelligence and character, followed by honesty and integrity. Love and emotional closeness came in third. This suggests that, despite the romantic ideal associated with marriage, moral qualities play a central role in people’s minds.

As for preferred ages for marriage, every second respondent identified 21–25 years as the ideal age. Nearly a third supported earlier marriage — under the age of 20 — a view more commonly held by the older generation. Another 16.7% believe that forming a family is more reasonable between the ages of 26 and 30. This shift, particularly among youth, is associated with expanded educational and career opportunities and a reassessment of life priorities.

Overall, the results of this large-scale sociological study confirmed that the family remains a cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s sustainable development — a source of demographic stability, economic growth, and cultural identity. It is through the family system that social responsibility, civic engagement, and the quality of human capital are shaped — all of which constitute the potential of society.