Uzbekistan introduces early intervention social service

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan has adopted a presidential decree titled “On additional measures to fundamentally improve the system of providing social services to persons with disabilities suffering from mental disorders”, aimed at expanding and modernising social support mechanisms.

The document provides for the phased introduction, by 1 June 2026, of the “Early Intervention” service (“Erta aralashuv”), designed for the early detection of physical and intellectual developmental disorders in children and the provision of comprehensive support.

Under the new system, services will be delivered to children under the age of three with disabilities or developmental concerns by non-governmental organisations included in a special electronic registry maintained by the National Social Protection Agency. The registry will operate within the Unified National Social Protection information system.

The programme includes corrective and developmental pedagogical assistance, as well as rehabilitation sessions involving special education teachers and physical therapy instructors. It also provides for funding of medical examinations and surgical procedures for children with anatomical defects through the State Health Insurance Fund.

The decree further introduces a phased rollout of new social services for persons with disabilities of Group I and II with severe mental disorders. These include day-care and home-based support services, short-term accommodation, and specialised assistance. Among them are the “New Day” service, home care support, small-scale residential houses called “Madad” (“Support”), and a short-term placement service called “Social Vacation” (“Ijtimoiy ta’til”), provided for up to two weeks once a year.

Starting from 1 June 2026, representatives of “Inson” centres will be included in guardianship and trusteeship commissions under district and city administrations (hokimiyats).

These centres will also be granted authority to monitor the performance of guardians and trustees responsible for individuals with mental disorders.

The reform is aimed at strengthening the social protection system, expanding access to services, and improving the quality of care for vulnerable population groups.