Sharp Increase in Reported Cases in 2024: Over 1,000 Cases Recorded
In 2024, the Children’s Ombudsman in Uzbekistan received a significant increase in appeals compared to the previous year. A total of 1,064 appeals were submitted by citizens of Uzbekistan, as well as foreign countries, public organizations, and other legal entities. This represents a 2.4-fold increase from 2023.
During the fifth plenary session of the Senate, the Commissioner for Children’s Rights presented a report on the adherence to children’s rights legislation by state authorities. It was noted that the number of appeals received by the Ombudsman had substantially risen compared to the previous year.
Throughout the year, the Children’s Ombudsman and their staff conducted 31 monitoring visits to institutions where children are unable to leave voluntarily. They also acted as observers in 46 civil, criminal, and administrative court cases.
In an effort to address issues and analyze legislative gaps regarding children’s rights, 40 analytical reports were submitted to relevant government agencies and organizations. Additionally, three draft laws were developed in collaboration with responsible institutions.
To combat violations of children’s rights and legal interests, the Ombudsman took 36 corrective measures, including warnings, recommendations, conclusions, and requests to challenge court decisions.
As a result of investigating appeals, 14 criminal cases and 18 administrative cases were initiated related to violence against children. In educational institutions, seven employees faced administrative liability for physical abuse and neglect, while 22 employees received disciplinary sanctions for inappropriate behavior toward children.
Through internet monitoring, 83 cases of children’s rights violations were identified and reviewed, leading to 15 criminal cases and nine administrative cases related to violence against children.
Collaborating with “Inson” Social Services Centers, social and psychological assessments were conducted in 87 cases, resulting in 11 children being assigned legal guardians or sponsors for their well-being.
In response to appeals and requests, 52 children deprived of parental care from abroad were successfully repatriated to Uzbekistan.
To improve transparency and accessibility, the Children’s Ombudsman has launched official social media pages and introduced the website “Bolalarvakili.uz” to provide transparent information about their activities.
