CONSTITUTIONAL AND LEGAL GUARANTEES OF THE PARTICIPATION OF MASS MEDIA IN REPORTING ON THE ACTIVITIES OF COURTS

Abstract

This article examines the constitutional and legal foundations of mass media (media outlets) in judicial proceedings, as well as their theoretical and organizational aspects. The article is based on the norms of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, a number of regulatory legal acts governing the activities of the media, the Law “On Courts,” and the resolution of the Plenum of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated February 21, 2020, “On Ensuring the Transparency of Judicial Proceedings and the Right to Obtain Information on the Activities of Courts.” The principle of openness of judicial proceedings, the interrelation between freedom of information and judicial independence, and thoroughly examines the rights of media representatives to participate in court sessions and their legal guarantees. Furthermore, the openness of judicial information, its lawful dissemination, and the criteria for restricting information in certain cases are analyzed. Special attention is paid to the role of the media in preventing unlawful interference in court activities, ensuring public oversight, and strengthening trust in the judicial system. The article provides a systematic analysis of the current regulation of relations between the courts and the media, identifies practical problems, and proposes solutions. Based on the scientific analysis, evidence-based proposals and recommendations are developed to ensure the transparency of judicial proceedings, expand freedom of information, and improve the functioning of the media while maintaining the independence of the judiciary.