Sharp rise in children's rights appeals in Uzbekistan: Over 1,000 cases reported in 2024, marking a 2.4-fold increase

During the fifth plenary session of the Senate, the Commissioner for Children's Rights presented a report on the observance of children's rights legislation by state authorities. It was revealed that the number of appeals submitted to the Ombudsman had significantly increased compared to the previous year.

Last year, the Children's Ombudsman and the Secretariat staff conducted 31 monitoring visits to institutions where children cannot voluntarily leave. Additionally, they participated as observers in 46 civil, criminal, and administrative court cases.

To address identified issues and analyze legislative gaps in children's rights, 40 analytical reports were submitted to relevant government agencies and organizations. Furthermore, three draft laws were developed in cooperation with the responsible institutions.

In response to violations of children's rights and legal interests, the Ombudsman took 36 corrective measures, including warnings, recommendations, conclusions, and requests to challenge court decisions.

As a result of investigating submitted appeals, 14 criminal cases and 18 administrative cases were initiated concerning incidents of violence against children.

In educational institutions, seven employees faced administrative liability for physical abuse of children and professional negligence. Additionally, 22 employees received disciplinary sanctions for inappropriate behavior towards children.

Through internet monitoring, 83 cases of children's rights violations were identified and reviewed with the cooperation of relevant authorities. These investigations led to 15 criminal cases and nine administrative cases related to violence against children.

In collaboration with the "Inson" Social Services Centers, social and psychological assessments were conducted in 87 cases. As a result, 11 children were assigned legal guardians or sponsors to ensure their well-being.

Based on appeals submitted to the Children's Ombudsman and requests from partner organizations, 52 children deprived of parental care abroad were successfully repatriated to Uzbekistan.

To enhance transparency and accessibility, the Children's Ombudsman has launched official pages on social media and introduced the official website "Bolalarvakili.uz" to provide open and transparent information about its activities.