For reference, according to Article 77 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, parents and their substitutes are required to care for their children until they reach adulthood, ensuring their upbringing, education, healthy, complete, and comprehensive development. Under Article 474 of the Code of Administrative Offenses, individuals who fail to pay child support for a minor child in a timely manner may face penalties, including up to 15 days of imprisonment, a fine equivalent to 20 times the minimum wage, or mandatory community service for up to 120 hours. An individual committing this offense for the first time may be exempted from liability if they voluntarily settle the debt during the administrative violation proceedings. However, failure to pay child support even after administrative penalties have been imposed may result in criminal liability.

According to the "Regulation on the Alimony Payment Fund," approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan on August 3, 2022, state enforcement officers take measures to recover unpaid child support in accordance with the enforcement document issued by the criminal court against the debtor found criminally liable for evading financial responsibility for a minor child. If all legally prescribed measures prove ineffective, the state enforcement officer decides on compensation from the alimony fund, ensuring payment within two business days.

It should be noted that parents’ responsibility towards their children is not only a legal obligation but also a moral duty for every parent. Child support payments are essential for children’s healthy growth, education, and overall development.

Press Service of the Authorized Person of the Oliy Majlis for Human Rights (Ombudsman)