Legislative news
2026-08-06 09:00:00 / Legislative news
❗️ A new system is being introduced under the Presidential Decree to identify victims of human trafficking at the mahalla (community) level and ensure they receive comprehensive support services.
Starting from 1 September 2026, the authority to conduct the initial identification of persons who are victims or presumed victims of human trafficking will be granted to "Inson" Social Service Centers, specialized institutions, and non-governmental non-profit organizations.
From now on, identifying victims will no longer be limited to law enforcement agencies; it will also be carried out by organizations providing social services.
"Inson" Centers will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the socio-economic situation of victims and their families and refer them to social, psychological, legal, medical, financial assistance, and employment support services.
A minimum package of services will be provided free of charge regardless of the person's financial or social status.
The period during which victims may stay in specialized institutions and receive comprehensive rehabilitation services will be extended up to six months.
Victims who do not wish to stay in specialized institutions will be able to receive services at "Inson" Centers on a day-visit basis, allowing them to remain with their families and within their usual social environment.
Vocational training courses tailored to the interests of victims accommodated in specialized institutions will be organized.
Based on information regarding each beneficiary's work experience and professional interests, specialized institutions will prepare an individual vocational guidance recommendation. On this basis, an electronic request for vocational training will be submitted to the Ministry of Poverty Reduction and Employment.
Special attention will be given to ensuring the best interests of child victims of human trafficking, returning them to a safe family environment, and providing them with comprehensive rehabilitation services.
A 1146 hotline will be launched to receive reports and provide consultations by qualified specialists.
Comprehensive services will be provided to women who are victims of human trafficking and their minor children at regional centers in the Republic of Karakalpakstan, Kashkadarya, Samarkand, and Fergana regions.
✅ The Presidential Decree also strengthens criminal liability for human trafficking offences.
In addition to the principal punishment, offenders convicted of human trafficking in the fields of tourism and external labour migration may be prohibited from engaging in such activities.
Separate criminal liability will be introduced for trafficking in children, including offences involving their recruitment into prostitution, and investigations of such cases will be placed under the jurisdiction of the prosecution authorities.
Persons convicted of trafficking children for the purpose of involving them in prostitution will be classified among offenders who are not eligible for transfer to settlement colonies.