Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 13 March, the Senate Committee on Science, Education, and Healthcare held a meeting to review a number of key issues.

The discussions were attended by senators, the Authorized Person of the Oliy Majlis for Human Rights (Ombudsman), chairpersons of the standing commissions of local Kengashes, experts, and representatives of relevant ministries, agencies, and the media.

A key focus of the meeting was the discussion of the law "On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Further Strengthen Requirements for the Circulation of Certain Types of Tobacco Products, Devices for Tobacco and Nicotine Consumption."

It was emphasized that the country is consistently working to promote a healthy lifestyle, especially among children and young people, including measures to restrict the distribution and consumption of tobacco products. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in the illegal import and circulation of new types of nicotine products, particularly electronic nicotine delivery systems and e-cigarettes.

The adopted law aims to counter these threats by introducing amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Administrative Responsibility. Specifically, it establishes liability for the production, manufacture, acquisition, storage, transportation, sale, import, and export of prohibited tobacco products and electronic nicotine delivery systems, including e-liquids for e-cigarettes. However, individuals who voluntarily surrender prohibited products and report them to authorities are exempt from liability. Sanctions are also introduced for the illegal production and circulation of tobacco heating systems.

Senators noted that the adoption of this law is intended not only to protect public health but also to preserve the nation's gene pool and safeguard the environment from the consequences of spreading next-generation nicotine products.

Additionally, the session included a report by the Ombudsman of the Oliy Majlis on the work carried out in 2024.

It was highlighted that the Ombudsman's institution actively handled citizens' complaints, restored violated rights, prevented cases of torture, promoted legal awareness among the population, and collaborated with government bodies and civil society institutions.

Senators drew attention to the increase in the number of citizen complaints, which rose by 25% in 2024 compared to the previous year. Of particular concern was the significant 82% increase in complaints related to social issues.

The discussion also covered the effectiveness of court cases filed by the Ombudsman in the interests of citizens, as well as measures taken to protect rights and freedoms, addressed to state bodies and officials.

As a result of the discussions, senators recommended that the Ombudsman conduct a more thorough analysis of citizen complaints in the social sector, apply the necessary enforcement measures more effectively, and make broader use of the right to legislative initiative.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the Committee adopted appropriate decisions on the issues discussed.