Submitted by jonas on
[25 February 2015] - A decree came into force in Uzbekistan's capital, Tashkent, on February 25 requiring Internet cafes and computer clubs to close by 9 p.m.
The decree, which was issued by the Tashent mayor's office on February 18, also bans minors from being in Internet cafes during school hours and requires those youths using such facilities at "late hours" to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The new regulation is designed to stem the spread of "violent and immoral" content on children.
The decree said Internet cafes and computer clubs were having a "negative impact on underage youth" and were part of the reason for the "growing incidence of violence committed by minors."
Uzbek officials have been criticized for many years by human rights groups for blocking websites critical of the government.
CRIN's campaign 'Protect children, end censorship' is concerned with blocking children's access to vital information from diverse sources on issues from sexual health to history and politics, saying it is for their own protection.
CRIN calls for stronger standards on children’s right to information and, where restrictions are appropriate, that they are transparent and in line with all children's rights as set out in the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
- Check out CRIN's campaign page.
- Read CRIN's policy paper on access to information.