National Human Rights Center: Uzbekistan’s incarceration rate among lowest in CIS region

Uzbekistan currently has an incarceration rate of 68 inmates per 100,000 citizens, the lowest among member states of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), according to Akmal Saidov, Director of Uzbekistan’s National Human Rights Center. Authorities attribute this figure to ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing human rights and legal standards within the country's justice system.

Photo: Kun.uz

The announcement came during a roundtable event held in Tashkent on October 31, titled “Gender-Sensitive Management Strategies in Correctional Institutions: Best Practices and Key Challenges.” Speaking at the event, Saidov provided insights into the current state of Uzbekistan's correctional system and highlighted efforts to modernize it.

“Today, the number of inmates serving sentences in Uzbekistan’s correctional facilities stands at 68 per 100,000 population, which is the lowest rate among CIS countries. This achievement reflects reforms aimed at strengthening human rights and the rule of law in Uzbekistan,” he stated.

Photo: Uzbekistan’s National Human Rights Center

Significant steps have been taken to improve correctional facilities, with four outdated colonies, including the once-notorious "Toshturma" and "Jasliq" facilities, permanently closed. Additionally, since 2019, Uzbekistan has implemented a probation system to help individuals sentenced to non-custodial penalties reintegrate into society.

Inspector Burkhonkhodja Akramov from the Ministry of Internal Affairs' Correctional Department also noted that 69 dedicated rooms for attorney-client meetings have been established in detention centers and closed colonies, ensuring legal access for detainees. Furthermore, Ombudsman and Business Ombudsman officials are granted unrestricted access to such facilities to monitor conditions.

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