Uzbekistan Clarifies Rules On Filming Law Enforcement

Citizens in Uzbekistan will retain the right to photograph and film law enforcement officers on duty. However, penalties have been introduced for actions deemed to discredit officers. These amendments were approved by the Senate of the Oliy Majlis.

The updated law allows citizens to record officers, share images or videos online, and use them as evidence in court. However, it specifically defines “discrediting” as distorting actions, words, or events, including through manipulated photos or videos. Offenders face fines of up to 18.75 mn soum or administrative detention of up to ten days.

Previously, the Ministry of Internal Affairs had proposed a complete ban on filming traffic police officers, later suggesting a narrower ban targeting recordings made with malicious intent. These proposals sparked public criticism, with activists warning that such restrictions could lead to abuse of power and conflict with Uzbekistan’s Constitution.

In August 2024, senators requested revisions to the initial draft, leading to the current, more balanced version of the law.