The Legislative Chamber of Uzbekistan has adopted amendments to the country’s criminal and administrative codes that would criminalize polygamy, religious discrimination, and the denial of equal rights for women and men, Turanews.kz reports citing Gazeta.uz.
The amendments, which were passed on September 5, were proposed by the government in order to strengthen the country’s secular laws and to protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religion, gender, or ethnicity.
Under the new law, anyone who promotes polygamy or the superiority of one religion or nationality over another could face up to three years in prison. Those who deny the equal rights of women and men, or who wear clothing that makes it difficult to identify them, could also face criminal charges.
The amendments also introduce new administrative penalties for those who violate the country’s secular laws. These penalties could include fines of up to 1 million soms (about $10,000) or imprisonment for up to one year.
The adoption of the new laws is a significant step forward for Uzbekistan in its efforts to protect the rights of all its citizens. The laws are also in line with the country’s constitution, which defines Uzbekistan as a secular state.
The amendments are expected to come into force in the coming months.
