Migration Agency Appeals to Uzbeks Abroad

The Migration Agency under the Cabinet of Ministers of Uzbekistan has appealed to Uzbeks abroad, reminding them of the criminal responsibility for participating in armed conflicts of foreign countries.

The agency highlighted that in some countries, there has been an increase in the recruitment of migrants for combat operations, which poses a serious threat to citizens' lives, freedom, and future. The agency strongly advised Uzbeks to:

• Avoid approaching areas of armed conflict and hostilities;

• Refrain from participating in military operations;

• Not join the armed forces, security services, military justice, or other law enforcement agencies of foreign countries;

• Not agree to recruitment offers from suspicious individuals, groups, or organizations.

Additionally, according to Article 154-1 of the Criminal Code of Uzbekistan, joining the military service, security agencies, police, military justice, or other similar structures of foreign countries is punishable by a fine of up to 300 basic calculation units (123.6 million sums) or correctional labor for up to 3 years. For recruitment activities, the punishment is freedom restriction for 3 to 5 years or imprisonment for the same period.

In case of threats or suspicious offers, Uzbeks are advised to immediately contact the Migration Agency's offices, as well as the diplomatic and consular missions of Uzbekistan.