Uzbekistan Enacts Law "On the Protection of Children from All Forms of Violence"

On May 15, 2025, the Law “On the Protection of Children from All Forms of Violence” entered into force in Uzbekistan. This legal document marks a turning point in the legal and institutional development of the national child protection system.

Uzbekistan joined the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1992 and ratified it in 1994. Since then, the country has consistently taken measures to create a safe and supportive environment for every child. The newly adopted law is a key milestone in building a state system to protect the rights and interests of minors.

Based on intersectoral and preventive approaches, the law clearly defines all forms of violence (physical, psychological, economic, etc.) and neglect in legal terms. It covers a wide range of risks and threats — from domestic violence, bullying in educational institutions, exploitation, and cruel treatment to neglect and lack of proper care. Through this, Uzbekistan’s legislation is integrating into the global discourse on child rights protection. Article 19 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child obliges every state party to take effective legislative, administrative, social, and educational measures to protect children from all forms of physical or mental violence.

One of the law’s key features is the expansion of the circle of actors responsible for child protection. Whereas previously the primary responsibility rested with parents and guardianship institutions, now educational, medical, and law enforcement institutions, as well as local self-governing bodies — mahalla committees — are legally included in this framework. This aligns with international practice and the interagency coordination model promoted by the INSPIRE strategies developed by the World Health Organization and partners, which outline seven evidence-based strategies to end violence against children. These approaches are also supported by WHO guidelines on building national child protection systems.

The law introduces the “Order for the Protection of Childhood” — a state award that serves as an innovative tool of public recognition for professionals working in child protection. This measure reflects UNICEF recommendations to encourage specialists preventing violence against children and strengthens values of social responsibility.

In addition, the law provides for the creation of specialized centers for support and rehabilitation of children affected by violence; the development of educational programs aimed at nurturing respect for children’s rights; and the systematic professional development of all specialists working with minors. This aligns with comprehensive approaches presented in World Bank and UNICEF documents on building a sustainable child protection system.

The law prioritizes:

• Access to essential services — including social protection, healthcare, education, and legal assistance — ensuring comprehensive support for children and their families;

• Interagency coordination — ensuring effective cooperation across sectors and institutions for a holistic approach to child welfare;

• Accountability — transparency and responsibility of all system participants to the public and stakeholders for their actions and outcomes.

Such a model is consistent with international standards, including Sustainable Development Goal 16, which emphasizes building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.

The law pays special attention to adapting international mechanisms to Uzbekistan’s traditional and cultural context. Mahalla institutions are viewed not only as local governance bodies but also as key actors in social monitoring, prevention, and response. This creates a model of “glocalism” — adapting global standards to national realities — and aligns with the position of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child, which highlights the importance of culturally and socially relevant enforcement mechanisms.

Thus, the adoption of the Law “On the Protection of Children from All Forms of Violence” is not merely a formal step in strengthening the legal framework, but a clear expression of political will to build a humane, just, and safe society. The document serves as a practical tool for realizing Article 3 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which enshrines the principle of the best interests of the child as a primary consideration in all actions concerning them.

The law’s adoption confirms that Uzbekistan is taking an active role in the global child rights agenda and reaffirms its commitment to international obligations. It not only strengthens protection mechanisms but also integrates them into the wider sociocultural and moral fabric of society. This is an important step toward building a future in which every child is not only protected, but also heard, recognized, and respected as a full bearer of rights.

Azizbek Toirov
Lecturer, Tashkent State University of Law