Uzbekistan strengthens laws against domestic violence, prioritizes protection for women and children, implements new reconciliation procedures
The Senate of Uzbekistan has recently approved a new law aimed at strengthening protection measures against domestic violence. The Law “On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Connection with the Strengthening of Measures to Protect Against Domestic Violence” was discussed at the latest plenary session of the Senate.
This law was developed based on a recommendation from the World Bank to increase the effectiveness of measures aimed at preventing harassment and violence against children and women, as well as to improve the moral atmosphere within families. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), one in three women worldwide experiences physical harassment from their spouse. Shockingly, in 38% of cases, deaths resulting from harassment and violence occur due to the actions of the spouse or a cohabiting individual.
Statistics show that from 2023 to May of this year, 55.6% of the 894 crimes related to domestic violence were terminated due to reconciliation between the parties, while for the remaining 44.4%, the court issued appropriate verdicts. In response to these concerning figures, a new procedure for submitting a reconciliation request in domestic violence cases is being introduced, allowing it to be filed during the court hearing stage.
Specifically, the law establishes that a reconciliation request in cases of domestic violence can be submitted at any stage of the court proceedings, but before the court retires to the deliberation room. Additionally, provisions establishing liability for committing domestic violence against a child have been added to the Administrative Liability Code and the Criminal Code.
It is expected that this law will contribute to the comprehensive, thorough, and objective consideration of criminal cases related to domestic violence, increase positive influence on the behavior of perpetrators, enhance the effectiveness of preventive measures against harassment and violence towards children and women, improve the moral and ethical environment in families, and elevate the country’s standing in international indices related to women’s rights protection.
The new law has been approved by the senators, signaling a significant step towards combating domestic violence and protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
