This article is also available in:
Русский (Russian) 
Uzbek
In recent years, many TV programs in Uzbekistan have emerged that resemble the Russian show “Let Them Talk,” where discussions often devolve into absurd and irresponsible statements. These programs not only fail to address real problems but also propagate dangerous stereotypes that can harm society. For instance, just recently, two reports were aired in which a minor girl who had been raped was blamed for wearing makeup, suggesting that she provoked the rapist herself. In another case, a woman who committed suicide was blamed for her death, even though she was constantly beaten by her husband.
These stories were highlighted by bloggers Ali Kakhkhor and Jumagul.
One such example was a program discussing the rape of a minor girl by a 50-year-old man. This incident outraged viewers, but in the studio, one of the participants began blaming the victim. She pointed out that the girl had “styled eyebrows,” implying that this might have provoked the violence. How could anyone suggest that a rape victim was responsible for what happened?
Some women in the studio supported this opinion, claiming that the girl was too young to wear makeup and paint her eyebrows, which allegedly led to the tragedy. Such absurd accusations not only ignore the real causes of violence but also contribute to the spread of dangerous stereotypes that can justify the actions of perpetrators.
Another shocking case occurred during the discussion of a woman’s suicide, who, according to her children, suffered from constant beatings by her husband. In the studio, one of the participants, instead of condemning the violence, stated that the woman was to blame for her tragedy because she “should not have angered the man.” Such statements not only justify cruelty but also undermine efforts to combat domestic violence.
These programs have a destructive impact on public consciousness. Instead of helping victims and discussing ways to solve social problems, they place the blame for violence on the victims themselves, reinforcing stereotypes and prejudices. This leads to the normalization of violence and a decrease in trust in victims, who may fear seeking help.
For Uzbekistan, as for any society, it is important to build a healthy public morality and protect the rights of victims of violence. Television should fulfill its social function by promoting positive and just values, not undermining them with irresponsible and dangerous statements.
The text has been translated by AI. For more accurate information, please refer to the Russian version of the article.
