On July 9, the Senate of Uzbekistan approved the law “On introducing additions and amendments to certain legislative acts in connection with further improvement of the system of providing social services to persons affected by pressure and violence.”
Senator Malika Kadyrkhanova, who presented the report, emphasized that the law aims to strengthen targeted social protection for women and their minor children affected by pressure and violence, as well as to improve the services provided to them.
The law was developed by the National Agency for Social Protection and introduces amendments to the Civil Code and the laws “On Notariat”, “On Protection of Women from Pressure and Violence”, “On State Duty”, and “On Provision of Legal Aid at the Expense of the State”.
In particular, the “Inson” social service centers are granted the authority to certify powers of attorney equivalent to notarized ones for restoring lost bank cards of women affected by pressure and violence, for submission to commercial banks.
According to the senator, this will eliminate unnecessary hassle for victims associated with contacting a notary, allowing them to use their funds more quickly and receive state assistance in a timely manner.
Additionally, state duty will not be charged when issuing lost or damaged ID cards, duplicate birth and marriage certificates to women and their minor children placed in territorial centers for rehabilitation and adaptation of women.
Furthermore, affected women who apply to inquiry bodies, preliminary investigation bodies, or the court regarding pressure and violence will have the right to receive legal aid at the expense of the state. The law also defines cases in which they and their minor children will be provided with legal aid at state expense.
As noted by Malika Kadyrkhanova, this will expand victims’ opportunities to freely use qualified legal assistance, effectively protect their rights and legitimate interests, and increase access to justice.
Another change: the period of placement of victims of pressure and violence in special centers is extended from 30 days to 6 months.
According to the senator, this norm will create necessary conditions for women in difficult life situations to receive longer-term shelter in a safe environment, psychological, medical, social, and legal assistance, adapt to independent life, and prevent the recurrence of violence.
The law was approved by senators and sent to the president for signature.
Source: www.gazeta.uz