Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A new legal provision has been introduced in Uzbekistan aimed at strengthening the protection of the rights of individuals held in custody.

According to amendments made to the Law “On Detention during Criminal Proceedings,” all individuals placed in pre-trial detention facilities (SIZOs) are now required to undergo a mandatory medical examination upon entry. This was announced by the Ministry of Justice.

The law was signed by the President on 26 June, following its adoption by the Legislative Chamber on 21 January and approval by the Senate on 18 March. The measure is intended to prevent the use of torture and ill-treatment during the criminal justice process.

The new Article 27¹ stipulates that the medical examination must be conducted within two hours of the detainee’s arrival at the pre-trial detention center. The examination must be carried out by a medical professional of the same sex as the detainee, and—if the detainee agrees—their lawyer may be present during the procedure.

The results of the examination are to be recorded in a standardized report. If bodily injuries, trauma, or other signs of violence are discovered, these must be officially documented. The information is then communicated to the detainee and immediately submitted to the prosecutor for further action.

Additionally, the law requires that a new medical examination be conducted each time a detainee returns to the SIZO after being transferred elsewhere or taken out for investigative activities.

These changes will take effect on 27 September 2025, and are designed to enhance transparency in detention practices and ensure that the rights of detainees are fully protected.