UZBEKISTAN: Proposed Law Introduces New Punishments for Religious Education

Source: VOMC
Source: Forum18

Children in Uzbekistan. Photo: Flickr / eatswords (cc)

A draft law, which is purported to "further strengthen the rights of children," recently passed its first reading in Uzbek parliament. However, the proposed legislation seeks to punish parents or guardians who allow their children to receive "illegal" religious education before reaching the age of 18.

Religious education already faces several restrictions in Uzbekistan, but existing laws presently only target those who teach religion to children. Under the new law, however, parents would be subjected to fines and up to 15 days in jail for allowing such teaching. The government's Interior Ministry claims that the legislation aims to prevent children from falling under the influence of terrorist groups.

On June 26th, the Legislative Chamber published the draft law on its website. The posting has led to strong opposition from members of the public. One commenter stated, "What kind of parents...do not give religious education to their children?" A social media post by another concerned individual questioned the government's methodology: "What we found is that religious radicalism and fanaticism are on the rise. If [they are] on the rise, shouldn't religion be taught more deeply? Can bans work?"

While the law is publicly being promoted as a means of restricting militant Islamic training, it's evident that the repercussions of the new proposed law will affect all faith groups. Many Uzbek citizens have expressed concerns that their right to 'freedom of religion or belief' will be further restricted as a result.
More details on the challenges facing Christians in Uzbekistan are available at our country report.

Pray that the governing leaders of Uzbekistan will come to fully respect the religious rights of all citizens. 

Ask our Heavenly Father to work powerfully in the hearts and minds of the country's legislators so that this proposed law will either not be passed or that it will be amended to allow parents to continue providing religious instruction to their children. 

May the youth throughout this Central Asian nation have opportunities to hear the message of God's saving grace and, as a result, become instrumental in leading many others to faith in Christ as well.