Tensions among ethnic groups have the potential to create regional and racial conflict. The authoritarian nature of the Karimov leadership has so far prevented these antagonisms becoming violent. Incidents such as the 1989 and 1990 clashes between Meskhetian Turks and Uzbeks are rare. The removal of the Communist Party's leadership has meant that Uzbek society has reverted to traditional social patterns based on family, religion, clan and region, rather than on membership of the party. Independence has done little to alter the minor role of women in politics.
Arranged marriages are still the custom in the countryside.