During the visit, the delegation inspected the inmates’ living quarters, hygiene and bathing facilities, dining hall, medical unit, storage areas for food and medicines, short- and long-term visitation rooms, as well as the working processes of inmates involved in labor activities.
Special attention was paid to the conditions created for inmates with disabilities. It should be noted that in 2022, at the initiative of the Ombudsman and in cooperation with relevant government agencies, a Roadmap was developed to prevent torture and ensure equal conditions for inmates with disabilities. As part of the implementation of this document, facilities are being improved in accordance with international standards. Moreover, a practice has been introduced whereby a physically healthy inmate is assigned to assist a person with limited mobility and receives monetary compensation.
The medical unit was reviewed and discussions were held with medical staff. It was particularly noted that under recent legislative amendments, the positive practice of mandatory medical examination directly within the pre-trial detention facility prior to placement has been introduced. Additionally, it was emphasized that every newly arrived person undergoes an initial medical check-up, and in cases where bodily injuries are detected, prompt measures are taken.
It was also reported that both inpatient and outpatient treatment are available in the colony. In the absence of health improvement, the inmate may be transferred to Specialized Hospital No. 23 for inmates. During the visit, the Commissioner for Human Rights in the Russian Federation highly appreciated Uzbekistan’s experience and noted that it should be studied as a model of good practice.
As part of the monitoring visit, group conversations were held with inmates to gather their opinions about the institution.
At the end of the visit, a joint reception was held by the Ombudspersons, during which the inmates’ appeals were heard.
Press Service of the Commissioner of the Oliy Majlis for Human Rights (Ombudsman)
