How have penalties for sexual violence against children been toughened?

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has signed a law strengthening liability for all forms of violence against children. The Legislative Chamber adopted the document on September 30, and the Senate approved it on October 2. The changes took effect today, October 14.

One of the key changes allows sentences of 15 to 25 years in prison, or life imprisonment, for sexual violence against a child under 14, up from 15 to 20 years. The statute of limitations does not apply to rape of minors under 18. Mitigation of sentences is prohibited for intentional crimes that cause a child's death. Penalties for sexual harassment were also raised to fines of 10 to 15 base calculation values, or up to 10 days of administrative detention.

Saida Mirziyoyeva, head of the presidential administration, said that anyone who oppresses a child or causes them physical or mental suffering will be held liable, whether they work at an educational institution or are a close relative. The law also expands procedural safeguards for minors who are victims of or witnesses to violence.