Punishment for abusing and exploiting a child for begging
In response to the alarming increase in violence against children in recent years, the Senate of Uzbekistan has taken a significant step towards protecting children by approving a new law aimed at preventing child abuse. The law, which was passed during the 55th plenary session, recognizes and addresses various forms of violence against children and sets out measures to ensure their safety and well-being.
Drawing inspiration from the best practices of countries such as Denmark, Finland, Germany, and Georgia, the law was developed with input from a range of governmental and non-governmental stakeholders, including the National Social Protection Agency, Ministry of Justice, UNICEF, Children’s Ombudsman, and others. The law not only identifies physical, sexual, and mental forms of violence, but also addresses neglect, exploitation, coercion, and bullying as forms of abuse.
Key provisions of the law include the issuance of protection orders for child victims of violence, removal of children from unsafe family environments in cases of severe abuse, and implementation of behavior correction measures for perpetrators. Additionally, the law prohibits the use of corporal punishment and other forms of cruel or degrading treatment in raising children, emphasizing the importance of creating safe and nurturing environments for all children.
According to Regina Castillo, head of UNICEF’s representative office in Uzbekistan, this law represents a significant milestone in safeguarding children’s rights in the country. She commended the government’s commitment to protecting children from all forms of abuse and discrimination, noting that the law aligns with international conventions on children’s rights and underscores Uzbekistan’s dedication to ensuring children’s safety and well-being.
In light of the new law, the National Agency of Social Protection under the President of Uzbekistan recognizes its heightened responsibility in responding to cases of child abuse. Social workers will be tasked with assessing each child’s situation in collaboration with relevant authorities and providing necessary support to both the child and their family to address risk factors and prevent further harm.
Furthermore, the law outlines measures to establish a 24-hour helpline for children affected by violence and strengthen legal frameworks to hold perpetrators accountable. It underscores the collective responsibility of society in protecting children from harm and emphasizes the importance of early intervention and support to prevent violence and promote the well-being of all children in Uzbekistan.
In closing, the implementation of this new law marks a crucial step towards ensuring the safety and rights of children in Uzbekistan. By prioritizing the protection of children from all forms of violence and abuse, the government and key stakeholders are demonstrating their commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive environment for children to thrive and grow.
