UZBEKISTAN’S MERIT-BASED, DIGITAL-FIRST CIVIL SERVICE TRANSFORMATION

Abstract

This article examines the transformation of Uzbekistan’s state civil service through merit-based recruitment, digital human-resource management and systematic professional development. The study focuses on the institutional role of ARGOS and its interconnected digital tools for recruitment, personnel administration, assessment, training and performance management. Using documentary analysis and comparative examination of reported administrative indicators for 2024–2025, the article identifies the main results of digitalisation and the institutional challenges that remain. The findings indicate that digital platforms have made recruitment more structured by enabling online applications, testing, interviews and electronic personnel administration, while also expanding access to professional training and personnel data. The study argues that technology can improve efficiency and traceability, but digitalisation alone does not guarantee merit-based outcomes. Clear competency criteria, accountability, data quality, data protection and continuous professional development remain essential. The article proposes strengthening interoperability between HR systems, improving public reporting of recruitment outcomes, developing competency-based career management, validating digital assessment tools regularly, and linking professional development more closely with performance information. The study contributes to a practical understanding of how digital HR infrastructure can support a more transparent, professional and performance-oriented civil service in Uzbekistan.