The meeting brought together members of the Ombudsman’s Commission on Compliance with Constitutional Rights and Freedoms and the Scientific Advisory Council, as well as representatives of government bodies, law enforcement agencies, civil society institutions, NGOs, political parties, higher education and research institutions, mahalla chairpersons, officials working with women, and the media.

At the heart of all reforms being carried out in New Uzbekistan are the individual, their rights, and their legitimate interests. One of the most important tasks on this path is to increase the public’s legal awareness and legal culture.

It was noted that raising public legal awareness is one of the Ombudsman’s priority areas. Analysis of appeals shows that the need for legal knowledge remains high in remote areas. Therefore, a number of projects addressing these issues are being implemented.

In particular, the “Ombudsman School” project conducts open dialogues and legal outreach in remote areas; the “Ombudsman Hour” strengthens students’ legal literacy in general education schools; and the “Equality and Respect” initiative provides targeted psychological, legal, and social assistance to women who have experienced violence.

During the event, it was noted that only 13 percent of teachers delivering human rights lessons in general education institutions are specialists in law. Information was also provided on legal online platforms, interactive resources, and relevant educational programs that help raise public legal awareness.

Based on the analysis of appeals received by the Ombudsman, key areas for improving legal awareness were discussed, including gender equality, healthcare, legal guarantees in labor relations, and the right to education.

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