“Damage to victims of torture will be compensated” – Svetlana Artikova

“If the draft presidential decree “On measures to radically improve the system of prevention of torture in the activities of operational-search, investigation and execution of sentences” is adopted, which will soon be put up for public discussion, ensuring compensation for victims of torture, psychological support mechanisms will be improved. Ultimately, the effectiveness of the torture prevention system will be greatly developed.

The draft document stipulates that the norms of responsibility for torture in the legislation of Uzbekistan will be brought in line with the requirements of the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT).

The project provides for the study of the feasibility of Uzbekistan’s accession to the Optional Protocol to the UNCAT (New York, December 18, 2002) and the development of relevant proposals.

In addition, based on the universally recognized principles and norms of international law and best foreign practice, it is planned to develop a draft law of the Republic of Uzbekistan on national preventive mechanisms to prevent torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment,” Kun.uz correspondent quoted Svetlana Artikova as saying.

As the Deputy Prosecutor General stressed, she hopes that the document prepared jointly with relevant ministries and agencies on the recommendations of experts from international human rights organizations, will improve Uzbekistan’s position in international rankings and indices on torture.