The Senate approves a law that bans covering face in public places

A measure of administrative responsibility is being introduced for individuals in public places who cover their faces to the extent that it prevents their identification. This decision was deliberated on September 30 during the forty-fifth plenary session of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis and was endorsed by senators. The law titled "Amendment and Amendment to the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Code of Administrative Responsibility of the Republic of Uzbekistan" mentions "Additions."

This change is reported to be aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of information programs within the "Safe City" concept. It is also worth noting that exemptions from liability have been considered.

Senate Chairman Tanzila Norboyeva stated, "We are a nation that highly respects national traditions, including religious values. But at the same time, it is necessary for the life of our society and our state to be conducted under the rule of law. Every citizen of Uzbekistan is obligated to follow this unconditionally!"

It has been observed that in recent times, the number of marriages conducted solely according to religious customs and instances of polygamy have been on the rise in the country. Additionally, the promotion of polygamy and its so-called "advantages" through advertising, entertainment, and analytical materials has increased.

Consequently, the number of children born out of wedlock has also seen an increase.

In 2020, 16,564 babies born to single mothers were registered in the country, and in 2022, this figure rose to 18,955.

Given the circumstances mentioned above, this law aims to counter those who advocate for the superiority or inferiority of one class of citizens over another based on their national, racial, ethnic, or religious affiliation. Administrative and criminal penalties are stipulated for performing a religious marriage ceremony between individuals whose marriage is not registered in accordance with the law. 

Additionally, the law provides for administrative punishment for promoting cohabitation with two or more wives and for openly denying the equal rights of women and men.

The current approach to marriage, which often occurs outside the legal framework and is viewed solely as a religious ceremony, neglecting the associated legal requirements, can lead to social issues that are challenging to address through legal means. It is crucial to understand that these new regulations do not infringe upon the freedom of belief of our citizens. Rather, they signify that all social relations are governed exclusively by the Constitution and laws," stated Norboyeva.

It is important to recall that on September 5 of this year, during the meeting of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, the draft law "On amendments and additions to the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Code of Administrative Responsibility of the Republic of Uzbekistan" was discussed and accepted. These amendments to the existing law have sparked public discussions, prompting Deputy Alisher Kadyrov, Chairman of the Office of Muslims of Uzbekistan, and Mufti Sheikh Nuriddin Khaliqnazarov to express their opinions on the matter.