Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — During its fifth plenary session, the Senate of the Oliy Majlis reviewed a report by the Commissioner for Children’s Rights on the state of compliance with child rights legislation in Uzbekistan. The session highlighted key achievements and challenges in this area for 2024.

According to the report, in 2024, the Commissioner for Children’s Rights received 1,064 appeals from Uzbek citizens, foreign nationals, public organizations, and legal entities—2.4 times more than in 2023. The primary issues raised in these appeals concerned child rights protection, cases of violence, and violations of children’s legal interests.

To gain a deeper understanding of the situation, the Ombudsman and staff from the secretariat conducted 31 monitoring visits to institutions where children are housed without the possibility of independent exit. They also participated as observers in 46 court hearings related to civil, criminal, and administrative cases involving minors’ rights.

Based on the analysis of appeals and monitoring activities, 40 analytical reports were prepared and submitted to government agencies.

In cooperation with relevant authorities, three legislative proposals aimed at improving child protection laws were developed.

In cases where government bodies were found to have violated children’s rights, the Commissioner issued 36 warnings, recommendations, legal opinions, and petitions for the reconsideration of court decisions.

A significant part of the report focused on combating violence against children. As a result of reviewed appeals, 14 criminal and 18 administrative cases were initiated. Seven educational institution employees were held accountable for physical violence against children and negligence in their duties, while 22 more staff members faced disciplinary actions for mistreating minors.

Additionally, online monitoring identified 83 cases of child rights violations, leading to 15 criminal and 9 administrative cases.

In collaboration with "Inson" social service centers, a socio-psychological assessment of 87 children in different regions was conducted. As a result, guardians or custodians were appointed for 11 minors.

Due to efforts by the Commissioner and partner organizations, 52 children who had been left without parental care abroad were repatriated to Uzbekistan.

To enhance transparency and accessibility of information about the Children’s Ombudsman’s activities, official social media pages were launched along with the website Bolalarvakili.uz.

Following the discussion, the Senate adopted a resolution approving the activities of the Commissioner for Children’s Rights and outlining further steps to strengthen child protection in Uzbekistan.