Strategic management in higher education in Uzbekistan is deeply rooted in a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework that aligns national reforms with international standards. This paper examines how the Constitution, laws, and government decrees define the autonomy, accountability, and modernization processes of universities. The Law on Education (2020) and “The Higher Education Development Concept until 2030” are analyzed as foundational documents setting long-term priorities such as academic freedom, diversification of educational formats, and global competitiveness. The study highlights how legal instruments have evolved to support institutional flexibility, particularly through enhanced autonomy and international accreditation mechanisms. The paper also draws comparisons with the European Union and South Korea, showcasing successful international practices in balancing government oversight and university self-governance. Uzbekistan’s creation of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, and the introduction of performance-based evaluation criteria reflect a strategic transition to a more accountable and innovation-driven education system. Ultimately, the research demonstrates that a strong legal base not only legitimizes university strategies but also acts as a catalyst for long-term transformation, enabling institutions to adapt to global challenges, enhance quality assurance, and reinforce their academic reputation on the international stage.

higher education, strategic management, legal framework, university autonomy, accreditation, education reforms.

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