Uzbek Senate Approves Law to Support Victims of Violence

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — The Senate of the Oliy Majlis approved the Law "On Introducing Additions and Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Connection with the Further Improvement of the System of Providing Social Services to Persons Affected by Harassment and Violence" during its plenary session.

During the discussion, it was noted that work has been carried out in the country in recent years to improve the institutional and legal mechanisms for protecting the rights, freedoms, and legitimate interests of women.

The law establishes the powers of the National Agency for Social Protection under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan as the authorized body for the protection of women and children who have been subjected to harassment and violence.

The document also introduces additional social support measures for women affected by harassment and violence, as well as their minor children.

In particular, they are exempt from paying the state duty when obtaining a new passport to replace a lost biometric passport, as well as when issuing duplicate marriage or birth certificates.

Furthermore, the law provides for the creation of a system to provide state-funded qualified legal assistance to women affected by harassment and violence, and to their minor children.

Another novelty is the increase in the maximum duration of stay for victims in specialized centers from 30 days to six months.

According to the senators, the adopted changes will increase the effectiveness of social protection for women and children affected by harassment and violence, and improve the system for providing social services and legal aid.

Following the review, the law was approved by the Senate.