Reading behind bars: Inmates can reduce sentences by passing book exams

Examinations will be conducted digitally via the specialized E-mahkum (E-convict) electronic platform. For every book successfully completed and verified through testing, an inmate's sentence will be shortened by three days. To prevent abuse, the regulation caps the total potential sentence reduction at a maximum of 30 days per calendar year.

Inmates are permitted to take these literary comprehension tests twice a year. The assessment for each piece of literature consists of 25 multiple-choice questions, with candidates allocated two minutes per question. Each correct answer awards four points, allowing for a maximum possible score of 100 points. A score of 70 points or higher per book is required to pass.

The annual list of approved literature is designed to instill positive moral and ethical values in convicts. The Republican Center for Spirituality and Enlightenment, in coordination with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation and the National Library of Uzbekistan named after Alisher Navoi, is tasked with curating the reading list and compiling the test questions. The Department of Corrections under the Ministry of Internal Affairs will oversee the practical organization and administration of the examinations within penitentiary facilities.

Legal safeguards have been integrated into the system to handle potential disputes. If a convict is dissatisfied with their exam results, they or their defense attorney have the right to file an appeal with a court within five working days. The court will review the challenge and issue a final ruling. Should the claims brought forward by the applicant lack sufficient evidence, the initial test results will remain unchanged and the appeal will be dismissed.

This regulatory framework builds upon a legislative foundation laid in November 2025, when the Senate approved amendments to several legislative acts. The legislation formalizes sentence reductions for rehabilitating inmates who actively demonstrate reform. The initiative is expected to eventually apply to more than 13,500 individuals currently serving sentences across the country's correctional system.