Uzbekistan approves new law enhancing protection for children against violence

Expanded definitions of violence

The law broadens the scope of violence against children from three forms (physical, sexual, and psychological) to six, adding neglect, exploitation, and bullying.

• Neglect involves failure to meet a child’s basic needs despite having the means to do so, leading to health and developmental issues.
• Exploitation includes economic and sexual abuse, human trafficking, forced labor, and coercion into harmful practices such as early marriage or unsafe work environments.
• Bullying encompasses physical, verbal, or psychological harm inflicted by peers, including cyberbullying.

Protective measures

The law introduces protective orders for children affected by violence. Issued by law enforcement within 24 hours of identifying abuse or threats, these orders remain valid for up to 30 days and can be extended by criminal courts for up to a year, or until the child reaches 18 if necessary.

Children subjected to violence can now claim compensation for material and moral damages. They are also entitled to free legal, social, psychological, medical, and economic support, accessible through confidential 24/7 helplines operated by the National Agency for Social Protection.

Strengthened responsibilities

Parents and guardians are required to protect children’s health, nurture them with care and love, and shield them from harmful information. Disciplinary methods involving cruelty or humiliation are strictly prohibited at home and in educational institutions.

The law also mandates assistance to families of at-risk children. Measures include compulsory treatment for parents with mental health or substance abuse issues and financial support for unemployed or economically vulnerable parents to reduce factors contributing to violence.

Preventive mechanisms

To curb violence in schools, the legislation bans all forms of corporal punishment and implements measures to address bullying among students.

Accountability

Individuals violating the provisions of the new law will face penalties as per established legal procedures.