5 individuals face criminal charges for failing to pay alimony

In Uzbekistan, individuals who fail to pay alimony may face criminal liability, as emphasized by the Information Service of the Human Rights Representative (Ombudsman) of the Oliy Majlis. 

During the first nine months of 2024, the Ombudsman received 370 appeals regarding alimony, reflecting a 23.3% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Following an examination of these appeals, a total of 286,477,000 sums in alimony payments for the maintenance of minor children were successfully collected. In eight cases, offenders who neglected their alimony obligations faced administrative penalties, while five individuals were subjected to criminal proceedings, with court verdicts determining their punishments.

According to Article 77 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, parents and their guardians are required to support their children until they reach adulthood, ensuring their upbringing, education, and overall development.

Under Article 474 of the Code of Administrative Responsibility, individuals who fail to pay alimony promptly for the maintenance of their minor child may face up to 15 days in prison, a fine equivalent to 20 times the basic monthly income (BHM), or up to 120 hours of compulsory community service. 

If a person commits this offense for the first time and voluntarily pays the overdue alimony during the administrative offense proceedings, they may be exempt from liability. However, continued non-compliance following administrative punishment can lead to criminal charges.

According to the Regulation "On Alimony Payments Fund," approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan on August 3, 2022, individuals prosecuted for evading financial support for a minor child will face collection actions initiated by state bailiffs based on court orders for alimony recovery. 

Should all prescribed measures fail, state bailiffs are authorized to decide on covering alimony payments, which will be disbursed within two working days.

It is important to note that starting September 1, 2024, the alimony deducted from a debtor's pension will amount to 15%. Additionally, from October 1, the alimony taken from the salaries of pedagogues will also be set at 15%, while the deductions from the wages of debtors employed in the private sector and public organizations will increase by 10%. Furthermore, since October 1, the alimony contributions from unemployed debtors have similarly risen by 10%.