Senate approves law enhancing Ombudsman’s authority

Under the new provisions, the Ombudsman will be able to submit special reports aimed at protecting human rights, freedoms, and legal interests. These reports will encompass legal, organizational, social, economic, and other measures that address the safeguarding of human rights in the country.

Additionally, the law establishes the Ombudsman’s right to introduce legislative proposals to the Legislative Chamber as part of the law-making initiative process. This move is expected to strengthen the role of the Ombudsman in advocating for human rights within the legislative framework.

The law also introduces additional guarantees for the powers and independence of the Ombudsman and their deputy, ensuring that their responsibilities are carried out effectively and without interference. Moreover, it specifies that candidates for the Ombudsman position must be at least 30 years old and have resided in Uzbekistan for at least five years.

In a significant change, the requirements for candidates have been simplified. Previously mandatory criteria, such as possessing higher education and specific experience in human rights protection, have been removed. This adjustment aims to reduce potential misunderstandings related to these qualifications.

Furthermore, the Ombudsman will now have the right to participate in meetings related to the protection of human rights and legal interests, including sessions of the Supreme Court Plenary.

An important new provision introduced in the law is the establishment of an "Ombudsman Box" within penal institutions and pre-trial detention centers. This initiative aims to create a legal mechanism for individuals deprived of their freedom to submit complaints to the Ombudsman.

The new law has been sent to the president for final approval after receiving endorsement from the senators.