Principles of Developing the Religious and Spiritual Worldview of Youth in Uzbekistan in the Years of Independence

This paper is devoted to the principles and mechanism of the formation of the religious and spiritual outlook of Uzbekistan's youth in independent years. The article examines the changes in state youth policy, arguing with structural transformations under democra-tic reforms and substantiation of weak civil society institutions and claims towards interreligious tolerance. Special emphasis is placed on the role of religion as a historical, cultural and socio-political determinant in the formation of value orientations of young people. The study examines the legal and institutional mechanisms in place to guarantee freedom of conscience and religion, such as domestic legislation and international human rights obligations adopted by Uzbekistan. It also emphasizes the need to link secular education with enlightened religious values to combat extremism and inculcate the force of “enlightenment against ignorance.” This echo the importance of working in ununity between the state structures, educational formations, civil society organizations and religious institutions to promote patriotic, tolerant and responsible youth. The results of the study can be used to contribute to a balanced religious and spiritual outlook among young people, which is considered as a top priority in terms of sustainable national development and social stability in present-day Uzbekistan.