Uzbekistan is intensifying its regulation of the digital landscape by instituting penalties for online insults and establishing ethical guidelines for the development and use of artificial intelligence (AI). The Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis has approved a draft law imposing administrative liability for online insults, which has now been forwarded to the Senate for further consideration. Concurrently, the Ministry of Justice has registered a set of ethical principles governing AI technologies.
The draft legislation, adopted in its second and third readings following consultations with various stakeholders, includes administrative penalties for the use of obscene language on the internet and telecommunications networks, as well as insults directed at individuals. According to the proposed amendments to Article 183 of Uzbekistan’s Code of Administrative Responsibility, offenders may face fines of up to 5 million soʻm (approximately $400) or an administrative arrest of up to 10 days. Lawmakers assert that this measure aims to enhance ethical standards in cyberspace and curb the proliferation of abusive behavior online.
In addition, the bill contains provisions targeting the promotion of illegal activities. Specifically, it establishes liability for individuals who publish information about offenses they have committed or distribute material that encourages unlawful actions. Another clause in the legislation addresses the dissemination of materials that promote participation in military actions. The law also introduces penalties for any illegal acts concerning property seized during enforcement proceedings.
Initially introduced in February, the draft law follows an analysis of crime trends across various regions and discussions with citizens regarding issues prevalent in the digital space. If the Senate approves the legislation, it will subsequently be sent to the president for signature before it can take effect.
Simultaneously, Uzbekistan has adopted new ethical guidelines for the development and use of AI technologies. The Ministry of Justice has registered these guidelines, which establish core principles for AI systems, including legality, transparency, accountability, fairness, and the protection of personal data. The rules mandate that developers and users of AI systems must clearly disclose their purpose and inform individuals when AI technologies are in use.
A significant provision of these ethical rules emphasizes that decisions impacting human rights or other critical areas cannot be made solely based on AI-generated conclusions. This provision is particularly relevant in sectors like healthcare, where automated systems can significantly affect individual lives. Developers are also required to inform users that AI-generated results may be inaccurate and should be utilized solely for informational or advisory purposes.
The ethical guidelines will come into effect three months after registration, officially starting on June 17. The initiatives reflect Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to advance digital technologies. In October 2025, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a decree aimed at accelerating the development of AI within the country and attracting $1 billion in investment for AI infrastructure over the next five years.
Officials emphasize that these combined measures are designed to ensure that the advancement of technology is accompanied by clear ethical standards and responsible usage of digital platforms. The recent legislative and ethical developments indicate Uzbekistan’s commitment to creating a balanced regulatory framework as it navigates the complexities of the digital age.
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