Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan has reviewed, in the first reading, a draft law titled "On Amendments to Article 135 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan," aimed at strengthening penalties for crimes related to human trafficking.

Despite ongoing efforts to enhance the legal framework for protecting human rights and combating human trafficking, such crimes continue to occur in the country. This has highlighted the need for harsher penalties for these offenses.

The draft law proposes amendments to the Criminal Code to increase the severity of punishment for individuals convicted of human trafficking. Specifically, it suggests considering previous offenses such as kidnapping and crimes against pregnant women as aggravating circumstances.

The adoption of this draft law aims to prevent human trafficking crimes and improve Uzbekistan’s position in international indices related to the rights of women and children.

The deputies approved the draft law in the third reading, reflecting the country’s commitment to strengthening human rights protection.