Therefore, starting from 2024, on the initiative of the Commissioner of Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights (Ombudsman), a practice of conducting anonymous surveys among individuals under probation supervision was introduced to assess how the right to appeal is being implemented in practice.

Why Exactly Persons Under Probation?

The anonymous surveys were conducted among citizens who have served their sentence, returned to society, and are currently under the supervision of the Probation Service. This approach allows for an objective assessment of the survey results. Individuals who have been released from custody can freely express their experiences based on their personal history.

In 2024, with the cooperation of the Ombudsman's regional representatives and the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ Probation Service, surveys were conducted involving 2,213 individuals across all regions. In 29 cases, respondents indicated difficulties in sending appeals. In 30 cases, it was mentioned that the “Ombudsman Box” was either located in an inconvenient place or under video surveillance. The remaining participants reported that there were no obstacles to exercising their right to appeal.

Based on the results of this survey, the Ombudsman submitted a conclusion to the Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan. In accordance with the recommendations, it was verified that the locations of the “Ombudsman Boxes” were relocated to areas free from video surveillance. Awareness-raising work was carried out in relevant institutions, and anonymous surveys involving more than 18,000 prisoners were conducted in 41 penal institutions.

It has been announced that in 2025, anonymous surveys will continue among persons under probation regarding the conditions in facilities where individuals with restricted freedom of movement are held.

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