Parliament advances bill targeting online insults and disorderly behavior

The draft law, submitted by a group of deputies under their right of legislative initiative, was discussed during a plenary session of the lower house of parliament. The proposed amendments aim to establish administrative penalties for actions carried out via telecommunications networks and the internet that disrupt public order.

Lawmakers noted that in recent years Uzbekistan has implemented systematic measures to strengthen public order and security and to prevent crime. However, it was also highlighted that cases of obscene language, insults, and other forms of offensive conduct that undermine public order continue to be observed in online spaces.

Under the proposed legislation, such behavior would be subject to administrative sanctions. The initiative is intended to safeguard public order and citizens’ peace, as well as to prevent violations of the law in the digital environment.

During the discussion, deputies emphasized that the proposed norms would contribute to creating a safer online environment, reduce negative influences on society, particularly on young people, and improve the overall effectiveness of efforts to combat administrative offenses.

Following the debate, the Legislative Chamber approved the draft law in its first reading.