New guidelines on capturing and using personal images in Uzbekistan

A draft law developed by the Ministry of Justice proposes a general rule requiring consent before photographing or filming any individual or using their image. The proposed law aims to strengthen individuals' rights regarding their images.

The Ministry of Justice analyzed practices in nearly 30 countries and assessed the national legal framework to develop this draft law, which has been published for public discussion to gather opinions.

Key points of the draft law include:

• Adolescents aged 16 and above can independently provide consent for being photographed or filmed and for the use of their images.
• Consent is not required for capturing images in public places or during mass events.
• Government employees can be photographed or filmed without restriction while performing their official duties.
• Consent is not necessary for recording illegal activities.
• Warning signs must be installed where video surveillance systems are in operation.
• Video surveillance is prohibited in places where people are partially or fully undressed, such as medical rooms, bathrooms, and changing areas.
• If an individual’s image is used for purposes other than those for which consent was given, or in a way that demeans their dignity, the consent can be revoked.

As a reminder, a previous law introduced penalties of up to 50 times the minimum base calculation amount or 10 days of detention for disseminating altered footage of law enforcement officers in a way that tarnishes their reputation.