Life imprisonment may be introduced for pedophiles in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan may introduce penalties of up to life imprisonment for sexual crimes committed against children under the age of 14. This is outlined in the draft State Program on implementing the “Uzbekistan–2030” Strategy and reform initiatives under the “Year of Mahalla Development and Social Advancement.”

According to the draft document, criminal liability for acts of violence against women and children will be significantly tightened. In particular, sexual crimes committed against persons under the age of 14 may be punishable by life imprisonment.

The investigation of sexual and violence-related crimes committed against minors will be transferred to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Prosecutor’s Office. In addition, a system will be introduced under which such cases, as well as cases involving violence against women, will be investigated and tried by specially trained investigators and judges.

The draft also предусматривает the introduction of administrative liability for parents or legal guardians who arrange engagements involving underage individuals, as well as for persons who promote illegal marriages.

Furthermore, the effectiveness of special training programs for young couples at family and women’s support centers will be enhanced. At least 40 percent of young couples are expected to be covered by these programs, with psychologists, lawyers, and other specialists involved to strengthen measures aimed at preventing domestic violence.

The proposed measures are scheduled to come into force on April 1, 2026.