In a country where human rights are considered a priority and valued, mechanisms for their protection are constantly being improved. The role of national institutions in our society is invaluable in this.

In this regard, another historic step is being taken – the constitutional status is being given to the national human rights institutions. 

Article 56 of the renewed Constitution stipulates that: “National human rights institutions complement the existing forms and means of protecting human rights and freedoms, promote the development of civil society and enhance the culture of human rights. The State creates conditions for organizing the activities of national human rights institutions”.

The restoration of violated rights and freedoms of a citizen is also carried out not only through the relevant courts, but also with the support of national human rights institutions.

A 1993 UN Resolution adopted principles relating to the status of national human rights institutions. This document, known worldwide as the Paris Principles, sets out the most important, general provisions concerning the activities of national human rights institutions established in each state.

The system of national human rights institutions in Uzbekistan includes the Commissioner of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights (Ombudsman), the Commissioner for Children's Rights under the Ombudsman, the Commissioner for the Protection of the Rights and Legitimate Interests of Business Entities under the President (Business Ombudsman), the National Center of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights. Their activities are organized in accordance with international standards in the field of human rights, taking into account advanced foreign experience, and are constantly being improved.          

It is necessary that national human rights institutions would carry out their activities legally and practically independently, have sufficient human and financial resources to carry out their activities and cooperate effectively with relevant State and international bodies. In addition, national human rights institutions function together with civil society. They are independent and act as a kind of bridge between civil society and the authorities. The consolidation of these provisions in our Constitution further strengthens the system of protection of human rights and freedoms and will serve the development of national institutions.

Firdavs Sharipov,

Deputy of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis.