Museum of Victims of Political Repression in Tashkent, Tashkent

The Museum of Victims of Political Repression in Tashkent is a poignant institution that preserves the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for Uzbekistan's independence and suffered under Soviet-era political repression. Established on 31 August 2002 by the country's first president, Islam Karimov, the museum is one of the youngest in Uzbekistan. Initially housed in a modest park near the Tashkent TV Tower, it has since grown into a comprehensive memorial complex.

The museum is divided into ten sections, offering an in-depth exploration of Uzbekistan's turbulent history from the mid-19th century to the late 20th century. The exhibits focus on the colonial repression during the Russian Empire’s expansion into Central Asia in the 1860s and the devastating political purges under Stalin’s regime following the October Revolution. A particularly notable segment covers the infamous “Cotton Case” of the 1980s, which implicated thousands in fraudulent criminal charges.

The museum's collection includes photographs, documents, and personal belongings of the victims, providing a somber yet insightful perspective on their lives and struggles. Visitors can view detailed maquettes of concentration camps and prisons, illustrating the harsh conditions endured by detainees. The centerpiece of the museum is the “Prison Van” exhibit, symbolizing the cruel transportation methods used to take prisoners to their fate.

The Museum of Victims of Political Repression serves as a memorial to the countless individuals who suffered and perished under oppressive regimes. It also sheds light on the broader struggle for Uzbekistan’s independence, making it a vital space for reflection and historical education.