The concepts of Homeland, Nation, and People are the highest values for humanity. These three notions define a person’s moral and ethical standards, symbolize devotion, and determine an active civic position. Although they may be considered separately, they are inherently interconnected, forming a triad — a unity that serves as the foundation of societal progress, national identity, and state stability.

A ceremonial event dedicated to the 34th anniversary of Independence and the start of the new academic year was held today in the courtyard of our university. Along with the university administration, distinguished guests and students participated. The event was conducted in an engaging and lively manner by Khondamir. First, the university rector Bahodir Mirzayev delivered his congratulatory speech. Then, our university’s esteemed academics and professors spoke. Particularly, the passionate and inspiring speech of Doctor of Philosophy, Professor, and expert of the Center for Spirituality and Enlightenment Jamila Shermuhamedova deeply impressed the audience.

Homeland represents existence — a sacred land connected to the unity of nature and society. Nation represents wealth — the ability to preserve identity through language, values, customs, and traditions. People represent being — a force striving toward the future with shared goals.

Life and body are Homeland itself. A person may live without eyes, hands, or legs, but cannot live without a homeland. It is the sacred and indescribable place where one is born, grows, and comprehends spiritual and material existence. Its existence defines the physical and spiritual being of a person. Every person’s youth, memories, and sacred recollections are tied to the Homeland. The national security and peace of any state depend primarily on preserving the Homeland. Hence, the motto “Our idea is our defense” is not accidental. Thus, protecting and safeguarding its prosperity, and sacrificing oneself for its future, is the duty of every citizen.

History bears witness that a nation without a homeland loses its stability and existence. For example, the fate of the Sarmatians, Scythians, and Khazars illustrates this truth.

In building a strong civil society, each person contributes to the progress of the Homeland with their labor and abilities. For example, a farmer cultivates and prospers his land, while a teacher nurtures the future through knowledge, and so on.

Nation is spiritual wealth, valuable through its history and culture. It is a socio-spiritual unity bound by a common language, history, traditions, and values. Its wealth lies in the spiritual and material heritage accumulated over centuries. In other words, it is not a historical relic but a living force — the collective soul of society united by common history, language, religion, culture, and customs. The unity of a nation ensures the cohesion of its people. Respecting one’s national values defines spiritual strength. For example, granting the Uzbek language the status of the state language became not only a legal right but also a symbol of national identity. Likewise, the recognition of Navruz by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage demonstrates that national values are acknowledged globally. The inclusion of Uzbek national dance, Bakhshi art, and the national dish Palov as cultural heritage confirms this further.

A nation contributes to world civilization through its values, language, literature, and art. If a nation disappears, so too do its language, culture, and traditions. Figures like Alisher Navoi, Avicenna, and Farabi embody the scientific wealth of their nations. Thus, a nation is wealth — not only materially, but spiritually, historically, and aesthetically.

People are the foundation of national unity and social justice. They are the force that cultivates the Homeland and transforms the Nation into a living power. The well-being of the people is the state’s primary duty. When people are respected, the nation is glorified, and the Homeland shines.

For example, in Uzbekistan, the idea of “For Human Dignity” has become a central political and social strategy. Its core is prioritizing the interests of the people. During the pandemic, doctors, volunteers, and ordinary citizens demonstrated devotion in the service of the people — a manifestation of humanity and solidarity.

The people are a living society, a conscious community, the social entity that embodies national ideas. As long as the people exist, so do the Homeland and Nation.

It is appropriate to cite aphorisms that strengthen these reflections: A homeland without people is abandoned land. A nation without people is a rootless branch. The people are creators, builders, defenders, and preservers by nature.

During the pandemic of 2020, the solidarity and spirit of mutual support of the people strongly upheld the state. In Uzbekistan’s history, in the times of the Kokand Khanate and the Bukhara Emirate, popular movements led to historical changes. As the enlightened writer Abdulhamid Cholpon said: “The people are the sea, the people are the wave, the people are strength.” The people are the “breath” of the nation in life, the real embodiment of existence.

The triad — Homeland, Nation, and People — is a symbol of eternal tolerance. Preserving their unity ensures the spiritual stability and maturity of society. If today’s youth are raised upon this triad, the future will be in the hands of enlightened, thoughtful, and responsible individuals.

To love the Homeland is faith; to honor the Nation is a noble duty; to serve the People is an expression of humanity. Every young person who understands this feels deep patriotism and responsibility.

On the eve of the 34th anniversary of independence, reflecting the philosophical essence of this triad, it should be noted: the Homeland is our space; patriotism is our opportunity within that space. The Nation is our spiritual and cultural wealth, and the People are the living source that sustains and preserves these values.

Without these three — society becomes weak, like a body without a soul or a nation without purpose. That is why this triad is the spiritual pillar of unity between person, state, and society.

All our actions and common goals are in harmony with these three concepts, which are the deep roots of our independence. Homeland, Nation, and People are our being, our wealth, and our eternity. These concepts are also echoed in the call of our state leader, who urges unity and resilience.

Therefore, a person who dedicates their labor, knowledge, and talent to the Homeland, Nation, and People deserves to be called a true patriot, a servant of the nation, a servant of the people, and most importantly, an enlightener.

Rakhimboy Jumaniyozov

Professor, Member of the Writers’ and Journalists’ Associations of Uzbekistan,

Member of the Society of Enlightenment Promoters,

Press Secretary of "TIIAME" National Research University