Legislative Chamber Approves Draft Law on Administrative Procedure Reform in First Reading

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis has reviewed in the first reading a draft law aimed at fundamentally reforming the administrative judiciary system. The law proposes the introduction of modern mechanisms to protect the rights of citizens and business entities in accordance with international standards.

The draft law provides for amendments to the Code on Administrative Liability, the Code on Administrative Procedure, and the Law on State Fees. The reforms are intended to enhance the efficiency of administrative proceedings and introduce new institutions and procedures that ensure reliable protection of citizens’ rights and freedoms.

A key innovation is the formal recognition of the principle of legal protection of trust. Under this principle, the rights of a citizen or entrepreneur acting in good faith and relying on a decision or document issued by a government body are protected unconditionally. The legislation establishes that individuals conducting honest activities bear no responsibility for errors made by government authorities.

The draft law also introduces the institution of preliminary hearings, allowing evidence to be gathered, claims clarified, and agreements between parties facilitated before the start of the main trial. This measure aims to shorten case resolution times and reduce unnecessary expenses.

Mandatory participation of government officials in court hearings is another important provision. Failure to appear without a valid reason may result in judicial fines, increasing the accountability of state bodies and ensuring a truly adversarial and transparent judicial process.

Additionally, administrative courts are granted the authority to impose administrative liability for contempt of court or failure to comply with private decisions, strengthening the authority and effectiveness of the judiciary.

The drafters emphasized that the law draws on the experience of advanced countries, including Germany, Japan, Estonia, and France, and has undergone anti-corruption and gender assessments. It received support during public consultations.

Deputies noted that the introduction of these new procedures will provide effective judicial oversight of government activity, improve the business environment, and enhance public trust in the judicial system.

Following the session, deputies approved the draft law in the first reading.