Uzbekistan is considering introducing penalties of up to life imprisonment for sexual crimes committed against children under the age of 14. The measure is outlined in the draft State Program aimed at implementing the “Uzbekistan - 2030” Strategy and reform priorities for the “Year of Neighborhood Development and Social Advancement”.

Under the proposed reforms, liability for crimes involving violence against women and children will be strengthened. In particular, sexual offenses committed against persons under 14 would carry up to the harshest penalties, including a life sentence.  

The document also proposes transferring the investigation of sexual and violent crimes against minors to the exclusive jurisdiction of the prosecution authorities.

In addition, administrative liability may be introduced for parents or legal guardians who arrange engagements for individuals below the legal marriage age, as well asfor those who promote illegal marriages.

The draft decree further provides that cases involving pressure, abuse, or violence against women and children would be handled by investigators and judges who have undergone specialized training to deal with such sensitive cases.

At family and women’s support centers, it is planned to cover at least 40 percent of young couples entering marriage with special training programs. Measures to combat domestic violence would also be strengthened through the involvement of psychologists, legal experts, and other specialists. The new legal norms are scheduled to come into force on 1 April 2026.