President Mirziyoyev signs decree introducing life imprisonment for pedophiles

According to the presidential press service, the initiatives were developed by a coordination council following extensive public consultation, expert reviews, and an analysis of international best practices. The decree addresses several critical areas where the public has previously voiced concerns regarding the adequacy of current legal protections.

Harsher penalties for sexual offenses

The decree introduces a zero-tolerance approach to sexual crimes, particularly those involving minors. Key legal changes include:

• The introduction of life imprisonment as a potential sentence for individuals convicted of crimes against the sexual freedom of minors.
• A ban on transferring individuals convicted under Articles 118 and 119 of the Criminal Code (related to sexual violence against minors) to open prison settlements, ensuring they serve their full terms in closed facilities.
• Stricter punishment for sexual harassment, which will now carry an administrative arrest of up to 5 days.

Procedural reforms in investigations

To ensure impartiality and professionalism, the decree mandates a shift in how sexual crimes are investigated. Jurisdiction over criminal cases related to sexual violence, covering six specific articles of the Criminal Code, will be transferred from the Ministry of Internal Affairs to the Prosecutor General’s Office.

Furthermore, any decision to dismiss administrative harassment materials due to a "lack of evidence" must now be officially reviewed and confirmed by a prosecutor. The decree also emphasizes specialized training for lawyers, investigators, and judges involved in cases of violence against women and children to ensure a victim-centered approach.

Enhanced protection for victims

In a move to provide immediate security for those at risk, the government will introduce a dedicated "SOS" mobile application. Women who have been issued a protection order can install the app on their devices. In the event of an emergency, pressing a panic button will alert internal affairs officers within a 5 km radius, who are required to arrive at the scene within 10 minutes.

Prevention of early marriages

The decree also tackles the issue of early marriages. Statistics show that 40% of marriages in Uzbekistan involve individuals aged 18–19, while international recommendations suggest 21 as the optimal age. To address this, the following measures will be implemented:

• Financial incentive mechanisms to encourage marriages between individuals who have reached the age of 21.
• State fee exemptions to promote the use of prenuptial agreements.
• A "whistleblower" incentive where 15% of the fine collected for violating marriage age laws will be paid to the person who reported the violation.
• The establishment of an interagency notification system involving "Inson" centers to track cases of early marriage or pregnancy under the age of 16, with administrative liability for those who conceal such facts.

Support for young mothers in education

To prevent women from dropping out of the workforce or education system, the decree grants female students who are pregnant or caring for children under the age of three the right to continue their studies through flexible arrangements.

Upon approving these initiatives, President Mirziyoyev signed the decree and instructed relevant officials to ensure the new measures are clearly explained to the general public across all regions of the country.