Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Deputies of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis reviewed and adopted in the first reading a draft law titled "On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan." The document was developed by members of the "Milliy Tiklanish" Democratic Party faction as part of a legislative initiative.

The draft law aims to further develop civil society institutions, strengthen their guarantees, ensure transparency, and enhance the effectiveness of public oversight.

According to the proposed amendments, administrative liability will be imposed on officials of state bodies for unlawful interference in the activities of non-governmental non-profit organizations (NGOs) and for disregarding the final reports of public oversight.

Additionally, the draft law provides for a reduction in administrative fines for violations of regulations governing NGO activities, with an average decrease of 25%. NGOs will also be required to disclose information on funds and property received from external sources.

The document tightens control over the establishment of public foundations, prohibiting individuals with unexpunged criminal records for offenses related to theft or fraud from registering such organizations.

Furthermore, it clarifies regulations concerning NGO participation in political activities funded by foreign grants and the transparency of sociological research commissioned by foreign donors.

The adoption of the draft law is aimed at protecting the rights of NGOs, ensuring transparency in their operations, and increasing the effectiveness of public oversight.