Matchmaking Practice in Uzbekistan
Abstract
This article examines the traditional practice of matchmaking in Uzbekistan, one of the oldest and most respected cultural institutions. Matchmaking involves mediation between a young man and a girl’s family with the goal of obtaining mutual consent for marriage, and it continues to play a significant role in family life education. The study explores both classical and contemporary forms of matchmaking, including the growing influence of digital and online platforms, which supplement—but do not replace—the traditional methods. Despite technological changes, matchmaking remains relevant, influencing the marital decisions of Uzbekistan’s youth by balancing cultural expectations, social norms, and personal preferences. The article highlights the motives, tasks, and challenges of matchmaking, emphasizing its noble and socially significant role in promoting family formation and preserving social cohesion.