USAID LEGAL REFORM PROGRAM FY2023 SECOND QUARTERLY REPORT: JANUARY 1, 2023 – MARCH 31, 2023

The program is implemented by Tetra Tech DPK under a contract with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The Government of Uzbekistan (GOU) has committed to legislative and administrative reforms to align the country's laws with international standards. The GOU has implemented various reforms in areas such as entrepreneurship, social development, foreign policy, and national security as part of its "Development Strategy for the New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026." The government has also taken steps to improve access to justice and citizens' awareness of their rights through the modification/deconfliction of laws, the introduction of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and the strengthening of the professionalism of legal practitioners. During the reporting period, the government issued several policy documents impacting LRP's work. These include Presidential Decrees and Resolutions on access to justice, transformation of law-enforcement bodies, education in the field of human rights, and the implementation of the Strategy for 2023 the Year of Human Care and Quality Education. Additionally, the draft "Constitutional Law on Introducing Amendments and Additions to the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan" was published and will be submitted for a national referendum scheduled for April 30. LRP has contributed to the development of legislation during this quarter, including amendments to the Criminal Code. The program conducted research on gender-based violence (GBV), developed an evidence-based report, held roundtables with GBV experts and government officials, and disseminated findings nationwide. As a result of these efforts, the Working Group under the Parliament's Gender Commission incorporated research recommendations while finalizing the amendments to the Criminal Code. On April 11, Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed into law amendments to the Criminal Code recommended by USAID, thereby criminalizing domestic violence and curbing abuse against women and children. The program's activities continue to support the efforts of Uzbekistan to develop its legal framework, enhance the legal profession, and improve the operating environment for non-governmental and civil society organizations working in the country. The report is organized by key objectives that include activities cross-referenced to the applicable sections in the Task Order Scope of Work. LRP's work is focused on three key objectives: Supporting Rule of Law Development in Uzbekistan, Development of the Legal Profession, and Development of Legal Enabling Environment for Civil Society and NGOs. The program's activities include implementing locally led grants, which aim to support the development of the legal profession and improve access to justice. The program has made significant progress in achieving its objectives, including the development of legislation and the implementation of locally led grants. However, challenges remain, including administrative obstacles and corruption. The government has recognized these issues and is working towards improving transparency in governance through the establishment of the country's Anti-corruption Agency and the passage of necessary legislation to help minimize fraud, waste, and abuse. Overall, the LRP continues to play a crucial role in supporting the efforts of Uzbekistan to develop its legal framework, enhance the legal profession, and improve the operating environment for non-governmental and civil society organizations working in the country.