Fact Check: Islom Karimov murdered at least thousands, likely far more, in his totalitarian rule over Uzbekistan

Fact Check: "Islom Karimov murdered at least thousands, likely far more, in his totalitarian rule over Uzbekistan"

What We Know

Islam Karimov ruled Uzbekistan from its independence in 1991 until his death in 2016. His regime was characterized by severe human rights abuses, including the suppression of political opposition and widespread torture. Reports indicate that during his rule, particularly during the Andijan massacre in 2005, the government’s response to protests resulted in significant civilian casualties. Official government figures stated that 187 people were killed, but independent investigations suggest that the actual number could be between 300 and 500, with some estimates even higher, indicating a potential death toll of around 745 according to opposition sources (U.S. Department of State, The Guardian). Human Rights Watch and other organizations have documented various forms of torture and repression under Karimov’s rule, asserting that the government engaged in systematic human rights violations (Human Rights Watch, Facts and Details).

Analysis

The claim that "Islam Karimov murdered at least thousands" is supported by credible evidence of state-sponsored violence and repression. The Andijan massacre serves as a significant case where the government’s violent crackdown on protests resulted in numerous deaths. While the official count was 187, independent sources suggest that the real toll was much higher, indicating a pattern of state violence that could lead to estimates of thousands over his 25-year rule (CBS News, BBC News).

However, it is crucial to assess the reliability of the sources reporting these figures. Government sources are often biased, aiming to minimize the perceived brutality of the regime. In contrast, independent human rights organizations and opposition groups, while potentially biased against the regime, often provide more detailed accounts of abuses and casualties. The lack of independent verification of the death tolls, particularly in a highly controlled state like Uzbekistan, complicates the assessment of the total number of victims.

Moreover, Karimov's regime was marked by a systematic approach to eliminate dissent, which included not just killings but also torture, imprisonment, and other forms of repression. This broader context of human rights violations supports the claim that Karimov's actions resulted in the deaths of thousands, though precise figures remain elusive.

Conclusion

The claim that "Islam Karimov murdered at least thousands, likely far more" during his rule is Partially True. While there is substantial evidence of state violence and human rights abuses leading to significant deaths, the exact number remains uncertain and likely varies depending on the source. The estimates range from hundreds to potentially thousands, reflecting the oppressive nature of Karimov's regime but lacking definitive figures to support the higher claims.

Sources

1. What the Death of Islam Karimov Means for Uzbekistan and Central Asia
2. Uzbekistan (12/08) - U.S. Department of State
3. Islam Karimov Dies at 78, Ending a Long, Ruthless Rule of Uzbekistan
4. Obituary: Uzbekistan President Islam Karimov - BBC News
5. Death Toll Soars In Uzbekistan
6. Uzbekistan: Authoritarian President Karimov Reported Dead
7. Death, Torture and Political Prisoners in Uzbekistan Under Karimov
8. Uzbek death toll reaches 745 - opposition