Uzbekistan is tightening regulation of the digital space by introducing penalties for online insults and establishing ethical rules for the development and use of artificial intelligence (AI).
A draft law introducing administrative liability for insulting others online has been approved by the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and sent to the Senate for consideration. At the same time, the Ministry of Justice has registered a set of ethical principles governing the use of AI technologies.
According to the lower house of parliament, the draft legislation was adopted in its second and third readings following revisions and consultations with deputies, ministries and other stakeholders.
The bill proposes administrative penalties for the use of obscene language on the internet and telecommunications networks, insulting citizens online, and actions that violate public order in the digital space.
Under amendments to Article 183 of Uzbekistan’s Code of Administrative Responsibility, offenders could face fines of up to 5 million soʻm (around $400) or administrative arrest for up to 10 days. Lawmakers say the measure is intended to improve ethical standards in cyberspace and reduce the spread of abusive or aggressive behaviour online.
The bill also introduces additional provisions targeting the promotion of illegal activity. In particular, it establishes liability for users who publish information about offences they have committed or distribute materials encouraging unlawful actions.
Another clause provides penalties for the dissemination of materials promoting participation in military actions. The legislation also introduces responsibility for illegal actions involving property seized during enforcement proceedings.
The draft law was initially introduced in February after lawmakers analysed crime trends in various regions and held consultations with citizens about problems in the online environment.
If approved by the Senate, the legislation will be sent to the president for signature before entering into force.
In parallel with the proposed legal changes, Uzbekistan has adopted new ethical guidelines governing the development, implementation and use of AI-based technologies.
The rules, registered by the Ministry of Justice, establish key principles for AI systems, including legality, transparency, accountability, fairness and the protection of personal data.
The guidelines also require developers and users of AI systems to clearly disclose their purpose and inform individuals when AI technologies are being used.
A key provision of the new rules states that decisions affecting human rights or other socially significant matters cannot be made solely on the basis of AI-generated conclusions.
This includes decisions in areas such as healthcare and other sectors where automated systems could have a significant impact on individuals.
Developers must also warn users that AI-generated results may be inaccurate and should be used only for informational or advisory purposes.
The ethical rules will enter into force three months after registration, on 17 June.
The initiative forms part of Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to develop digital technologies. In October 2025, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a decree aimed at accelerating the development of artificial intelligence in the country and attracting $1 billion in investment into AI infrastructure over the next five years.
Officials say the combined measures are intended to ensure that technological development is accompanied by clear ethical standards and the responsible use of digital platforms.
The initiative forms part of Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to develop digital technologies. In October 2025, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a decree aimed at accelerating the development of artificial intelligence in the country and attracting $1 billion in investment into AI infrastructure over the next five years.
Officials say the combined measures are intended to ensure that technological development is accompanied by clear ethical standards and the responsible use of digital platforms.
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