Legislative Chamber approves paid paternity leave in first reading

The Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis has approved a set of amendments to the Labor Code in its first reading. The proposed changes aim to modernize the country’s labor relations by providing more inclusive benefits for families and strengthening the rights of employees who face mistreatment at work.

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A key provision of the draft law introduces short-term paid leave for working men. This measure is designed to allow fathers to assist their spouses and participate in the care of children immediately following a birth. By institutionalizing this right, the legislation recognizes the vital role of fathers in early childcare and aims to alleviate the domestic burden often placed solely on mothers.

This initiative follows a proposal submitted to the lower house of parliament in December of last year. At the time, deputies emphasized that establishing paternity leave is a logical progression of the ongoing reforms in Uzbekistan’s gender equality sector. The move aligns with international standards that encourage shared parenting responsibilities and support the overall well-being of young families.

Beyond parental benefits, the bill introduces rigorous norms prohibiting harassment and violence within the workplace. For the first time, specific legal mechanisms are being established to protect employees from such actions. Under the new provisions, workers who have suffered from harassment or violence on the job will be entitled to additional leave, providing them with the necessary time for recovery and legal recourse.