Uzbekistan Proposes Law to Fine Unauthorized Use of Military-Style Uniforms

Uzbekistan's lawmakers have drafted legislation aimed at curbing the unauthorized wearing of military-style uniforms.

The proposed amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Administrative Responsibility seek to prevent the illegal use of official uniforms and insignia belonging to government ministries, agencies, and organizations, The Caspian Post reports, citing Uzbek media.

Under the draft, Article 56 of the Criminal Code would be updated to include new provisions. It stipulates criminal liability for individuals who commit crimes while posing as authority figures by using official uniforms or documents, even though they are not authorized representatives.

The Code of Administrative Responsibility would also be revised. According to the proposed Article 209-1, wearing military, departmental, or special uniforms - or uniforms with official insignia and symbols - without authorization would be punishable by confiscation of the clothing and a fine ranging from two to five times the base calculation unit (BCU).

The law also addresses uniforms that imitate official attire. Introducing or using clothing that replicates the color, design, insignia, or other elements of military or departmental uniforms would result in the confiscation of the clothing and fines ranging from five to ten BCUs.

Officials argue that the changes are necessary to prevent the misuse of uniforms that could mislead the public and compromise trust in state institutions.