Linguistic Landscape of Uzbekistan: A Sociolinguistic Analysis

Abstract. The linguistic landscape has become an important area of sociolinguistic research because it reflects language policy, multilingualism, cultural identity, and globalization. This study examines the linguistic landscape of Uzbekistan by analyzing the use of Uzbek, Russian, and English in public signs. The research explores how language choice in public spaces reflects the country's sociolinguistic changes following independence and increasing international integration. A qualitative descriptive approach based on linguistic landscape theory is employed. The findings indicate that Uzbek has strengthened its role as the state language, while English has gained visibility due to globalization, tourism, higher education, and international business. Russian continues to play an important communicative role, especially in urban areas. The study concludes that Uzbekistan's linguistic landscape represents a dynamic interaction between national identity, historical legacy, and global influences.