In particular, the monitoring covered Pre-trial Detention Center No. 9; Temporary Detention Facilities of the Internal Affairs Departments of Termez city and Boysun district; the Surkhandarya Regional Territorial Center for Rehabilitation and Adaptation of Women; the Special Reception Center; Settlement-Type Institution No. 41 in Sherabad district; Psychiatric and Neurological Hospital No. 2 in Denau district and the Regional Psychiatric and Neurological Hospital in Termez district; the medical assistance station for persons in a state of intoxication (sobering-up station) in Termez city; and the Surkhandarya branch of the Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center for Narcology.

During the visits, the monitoring teams inspected sleeping quarters, medical units, shower and sanitary facilities, canteens, and the availability of food products and medicines. Particular attention was also paid to walking areas, meeting rooms, facilities designated for meetings with lawyers, video surveillance systems, and the institutions’ preparedness for the winter season.

The “Ombudsman Boxes” installed in the institutions were also inspected, and individual interviews were held with persons held there. Appeals received were taken under consideration in accordance with the established procedure, and legal explanations were provided on certain issues on site.

As part of the monitoring, an in-depth medical examination was organised for persons held at Pre-trial Detention Center No. 9, in cooperation with the Surkhandarya Regional Health Department. More than 110 inmates were examined by specialists from over ten medical fields. Laboratory tests were also conducted, and medical consultations and recommendations were provided based on the individuals’ health conditions.

In addition, during the visits, an open dialogue and a mobile reception for women were organised at the Women’s Rehabilitation Center under the “Equality and Respect” platform.

Currently, 10 women and their 27 children are residing at the center. Their appeals were reviewed as part of the “Legal Assistance Bus” initiative.

During the meeting, the women at the center received legal consultations on support available to victims of violence, while responsible officials provided explanations regarding existing opportunities and benefits. It was also emphasised that women are always under the protection of the state. The participants highlighted the need not only to focus on supporting victims, but also to take measures to address perpetrators of violence, work with them and hold them accountable in accordance with the established procedure.

It should be noted that, based on the results of monitoring visits conducted by the Ombudsman to prevent torture, analytical information is prepared and relevant response measures are submitted to the responsible ministries and agencies, including in relation to shortcomings identified during the monitoring process.

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