Fathers may be granted paid paternity leave under new legislation

The draft law, titled "On Amendments and Additions to the Labor Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan," introduced provisions allowing working men to take short-term leave in such situations. This was announced by deputy Nodir Tilavoldiev.

"When men have a child, it is proposed to grant them the opportunity to take short-term leave — up to 5 days, with pay, within a month — to assist their spouse and care for their other children," he said while explaining the draft law.

It was emphasized that such leave had not been previously provided for under national legislation. As a result, men often struggled to balance their professional and family responsibilities or were forced to take unpaid leave.

Additionally, the Labor Code is being improved to incorporate principles of labor rights equality and the prohibition of discrimination, harassment, and violence in the workplace. Employers will be authorized to reassign or dismiss employees who commit or threaten harassment or violence against others in the workplace.

Furthermore, victims of domestic violence will be included in the list of socially vulnerable groups, and the state will provide additional guarantees to support their employment.