The key facts

  • UNICEF welcomed Uzbekistan's new law on protecting children from violence
  • The changes expand free legal aid for children and strengthen accountability in educational institutions
  • The 'Najot' center based on the Barnahus model will soon open to provide coordinated assistance to affected children

UNICEF welcomed the new law

Acting Head of the UNICEF Office in Uzbekistan Geoffrey Ijumba welcomed the signing of a law aimed at improving the system of protecting children from all forms of violence. "Violence against children is unacceptable. Every child has the right to grow up in a safe environment where their dignity is respected and their rights are protected," he said.

What the legislation changes

According to Geoffrey Ijumba, the legislative changes expand the possibilities of providing state-funded legal aid to children who have suffered from violence or witnessed it. In addition, the changes serve to strengthen the child protection system by enhancing accountability measures in educational institutions.

The 'Najot' center and next steps

UNICEF noted that the upcoming opening of the 'Najot' center, created based on the Barnahus model, will be an important step in providing coordinated assistance tailored to the needs of children affected by violence. The organization also emphasized the need to strengthen cooperation between government agencies, educational, medical and social services for the effective implementation of the reforms.