Uzbekistan introduces protection orders for child victims of abuse

Uzbekistan is establishing a procedure for issuing protection warrants to children who have experienced violence, as outlined in the newly adopted law, "On Protection of Children from All Forms of Violence," approved on November 14.  

The law defines several forms of child abuse, including:  
- Physical violence,  
- Sexual violence,  
- Emotional abuse,  
- Neglect,  
- Exploitation, and  
- Bullying.  

All forms of violence against children are strictly prohibited and subject to legal prosecution. The state is mandated to implement legal, administrative, social, economic, and other measures to ensure children are protected from all forms of violence.  

Under the new legislation, the rights of victims of violence are explicitly defined. Individual protection measures are established, including the issuance of protection warrants to child victims.  

These protection warrants are issued by internal affairs authorities and delivered to the victim or their legal representative in the presence of an authorized state body. A warrant remains valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.  

The National Agency of Social Protection under the President has been designated as the primary state body responsible for protecting children from all forms of violence. The agency will operate a 24-hour hotline throughout Uzbekistan to provide information, counseling, and support while helping prevent further cases of violence. Confidentiality of information shared through the hotline is guaranteed.  

The law is set to come into force six months after its official publication.  

The draft law was developed by the Ministry of Justice, the National Agency of Social Protection, and other official organizations.  

In related developments, on October 21, the President signed Law No. 978, introducing specific responsibilities for family violence committed against children by close relatives. This law amended Article 59-2 of the Code of Administrative Responsibility and Article 126-1 of the Criminal Code to include penalties for domestic violence against children.