Alarming reports of child abuse in Uzbekistan: a case from Yangiyol

Recent events in Uzbekistan have instilled fear among residents, particularly following disturbing reports regarding a 4-year-old girl from Yangiyol who allegedly suffered abuse. The situation has raised significant concerns about safety in public spaces, with citizens noticing increased patrols by internal affairs officers and national guardsmen.

On October 2, a resident of Yangiyol approached local law enforcement to report that an unknown man had assaulted his daughter, born in 2020, using unnatural force. In the course of the investigation, a 41-year-old suspect was apprehended. Authorities found him in possession of 15 grams of narcotics, and further inspection of his apartment revealed over 20 glue containers and crushed marijuana.

The suspect has been charged under Article 119 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan for sexual offenses, along with other charges related to drug possession.

The National Social Protection Agency responded promptly, assuring that the Tashkent region administration is closely monitoring the situation and providing psychological support to the victim’s family. A medical examination for the victim has also been arranged. The children's ombudsman reported that the suspect has a history of psychiatric treatment dating back to 2021 and emphasized that the ongoing investigation would clarify the details of the case.

While the specifics of the allegations against the suspect remain unconfirmed, the report highlights a troubling trend of child abuse in Uzbekistan. In recent months, there have been numerous cases of sexual violence against minors, with a particularly shocking incident in Khorezm involving the abuse of three girls in an orphanage.

Statistics from the Supreme Court indicate a rising number of sexual violence cases against minors in Uzbekistan, with 257 individuals held accountable for such crimes in just the first half of 2023. The country has even dropped in international rankings for child protection, currently positioned 58th out of 59 countries in preventing sexual exploitation and violence against children.

The increasing prevalence of these crimes against children is deeply concerning and highlights the urgent need for effective measures to protect the vulnerable in society.