Uzbekistan proposes stricter penalties for human trafficking offenders

During the second plenary session of the Senate, the bill “On Amendments to Article 135 of the Criminal Code Regarding the Strengthening of Penalties for Human Trafficking Crimes” was discussed.

It was emphasized that systematic efforts are being made to protect the rights, freedoms, and legal interests of citizens, combat human trafficking, and provide comprehensive support to victims of such crimes.

As a result, the fight against human trafficking has been more systematically organized, with state-level policies in place to support victims and provide legal protection for Uzbek citizens abroad.

It was specifically highlighted that the penalties for individuals committing human trafficking crimes through force, threats, or other forms of coercion are being significantly increased.

Furthermore, during the discussion, it was proposed to introduce amendments that would impose harsher penalties for those who commit human trafficking crimes against pregnant women.

Senators noted that the implementation of this law would play a crucial role in preventing human trafficking-related crimes, enabling effective measures to combat them, ensuring proportional punishments for such crimes, and strengthening the protection of children's and women's rights.

At the end of the discussion, the law was approved by the senators.