Uzbekistan has introduced a new, extensive strategy to protect children from all forms of violence. The strategy, signed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, aims to create a comprehensive system for prevention, detection, and intervention regarding child abuse, while also addressing the rehabilitation of victims. The decree was published on the official website of the President of Uzbekistan.
The newly approved Strategy for the Protection of Children from All Forms of Violence covers the period from 2026 to 2030. It also includes an action plan for priority measures to be implemented over the next two years. According to local reports, the strategy focuses on creating a societal atmosphere in Uzbekistan that is intolerant of violence, particularly in collaboration with international initiatives such as the Bogotá Call and the Global Alliance to End Violence Against Children.
Key Components of the Strategy:
1. Introduction of New Institutions (2026) — Starting February 1, 2026, Uzbekistan will establish several new institutions aimed at protecting vulnerable children. These include a professional foster care service for children removed from abusive environments, and social support centers for minors in need of protection. Foster parents will undergo training, and each child will receive funding equivalent to two minimum wage levels to support their care.
2. Legal Assistance for Victims — From September 1, 2026, the state will provide legal assistance to children who have either been victims of violence or witnessed it. This includes support from the moment they are involved in legal proceedings. The children's testimonies will be recorded on video to minimize trauma during investigations. Additionally, new administrative penalties will be introduced for workers in education, healthcare, and social services who fail to report cases of violence.
3. Family Support Services — Starting in March 2026, Uzbekistan will launch the “Mehrli Oila” service, offering free family therapy to parents facing challenges. This service will be available at the Inson Centers, which provide integrated social protection services. Furthermore, a special quota of up to 5% will be introduced for children from socially vulnerable families to gain access to educational institutions under various ministries.
4. Inclusive Education and Specialist Training — The Tashkent branch of the Russian A.I. Herzen Pedagogical University will be transferred to the National Agency for Social Protection. This institution will train specialists in inclusive education, social work, psychology, and adaptive sports.
5. Unified Electronic Platform — By April 1, 2026, Uzbekistan plans to launch a Unified Electronic Platform as part of the National Social Protection System. This platform will consolidate information about children in need of assistance, as well as those who may pose a risk of violence, making it easier to track all relevant cases.
6. Specialized Training for Professionals — Starting in February 2026, specialized courses will be offered for investigators, prosecutors, judges, social workers, and lawyers who work with minors who are victims of violence. This will ensure better support for both the children and the professionals handling their cases.
7. Oversight and Monitoring — The National Commission for Children will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of the strategy to ensure its success and compliance.
A landmark move
This comprehensive approach marks a significant step in Uzbekistan’s commitment to protecting children’s rights and addressing violence within society. The government’s strategy emphasizes prevention, legal support, family-based interventions, and education as key components of its efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of all children.
The initiative, expected to start in early 2026, reflects Uzbekistan’s growing focus on child welfare and the protection of its youngest citizens from harm.
