Deputies of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan have considered and adopted a bill proposing to transfer the investigation of crimes against the sexual freedom of women and children to the prosecutor's office, as well as to toughen penalties for such crimes, especially those involving minors.

The document expands the powers of prosecutor's offices, which are planned to be assigned functions for inspection, preliminary investigation, and enhanced control over the execution of punishments in cases related to sexual violence. This initiative is linked to problems in investigative practice, including instances of incorrect application of the law and insufficient protection of victims' rights.

The proposed changes also tighten the punishment regime for individuals convicted under Articles 118 and 119 of the Criminal Code ("Rape" and "Violent Satisfaction of Sexual Needs in an Unnatural Form") concerning minors, prohibiting their transfer to colony-settlements. Additionally, the investigation of crimes committed by officials, particularly those resulting in death, will become stricter and more effective.

The new measures are expected to strengthen the protection of women and children, increase the detection rate of such crimes, and ensure the inevitability of punishment. It is recalled that Uzbekistan has already introduced a "blacklist" mechanism for individuals caught in violence and pressure against women and children.

Source: podrobno.uz