ISSUES OF REFORMING THE BUDGET AND FINANCIAL SYSTEM IN ACHIEVING THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN UZBEKISTAN

Abstract

This article examines the systemic challenges and reform trajectories of Uzbekistan's budget and financial system in the context of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As the country undergoes comprehensive economic transformation, the alignment of public financial management with sustainable development priorities has emerged as a critical policy imperative. The study analyses key reform initiatives, including the transition to programme-based budgeting, the integration of green budgeting mechanisms, and the institutionalisation of SDG-oriented expenditure planning . Special attention is given to the persistent structural issues impeding effective resource allocation, such as the high share of the shadow economy (34.8% of GDP), informal employment affecting approximately 5 million citizens, and the predominance of cash settlements that undermine fiscal transparency