During the monitoring, it was established that the colony administration had concluded contracts with five limited liability companies and that 208 convicts had been engaged in labor. At three of the five production facilities examined, a number of shortcomings were identified relating to sanitary and hygienic conditions, catering and medical services, occupational safety, and arrangements for short-term meetings between convicts and their close relatives.

Following the identified shortcomings, the Ombudsman submitted a formal representation to the Department for the Execution of Sentences under the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

According to the Department’s response, based on the Ombudsman’s representation, dining areas and shower facilities at two production sites were cleaned and disinfected. Repair and plumbing works were carried out in the shower rooms, and they were connected to permanent hot and cold water supply.

In addition, breakfast, lunch, and dinner meal standards for convicts were revised, and appropriate amendments were introduced to the menu. Additional refrigerators were installed to prevent food spoilage during hot weather.

A separate room was arranged for short-term meetings with close relatives, while long-term visits were organized within the settlement colony.

First-aid kits were fully supplied with the medicines necessary for emergency medical assistance. To ensure occupational safety and protect the health of convicts, they were provided with the necessary personal protective equipment, safety vests, and disposable face masks.

The contract with the third production facility, where the shortcomings identified during the monitoring had not been eliminated, was terminated.

To prevent similar situations in the future, the Department issued instructions to strengthen the responsibility of employees assigned to production facilities and to ensure continuous supervision of conditions by colony management.

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