Marriage is encouraged in Uzbekistan after the age of 21

Additional financial support mechanisms will be introduced to encourage marriage among individuals who have reached the age of 21 in Uzbekistan. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

This initiative was announced by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on March 3 as part of a series of new proposals aimed at protecting the rights of women and children, and preventing pressure and violence. Preventing early marriage, early childbirth, and cases of violence remains a constant focus to strengthen the family institution and foster a healthy environment in society.

For this purpose, an inter-agency council has been established and tasked with developing practical proposals. In Uzbekistan, 40 percent of marriages are contracted between individuals aged 18–19.

However, according to recommendations from international organizations, the most optimal marriage age is 21, as individuals at this age typically achieve financial independence and are ready to start a family. Based on this, a number of initiatives have been proposed.

These include encouraging marriages among those aged 21 and older through financial support, promoting marriage contracts by providing exemptions from state fees, and increasing the effectiveness of detecting early marriages by awarding 15 percent of the fine to those who report such cases. Additionally, an inter-agency chain will be established for reporting early marriages and pregnancies under the age of 16, with administrative liability planned for failure to report.

Measures will also be taken to prevent dropout among pregnant students or those raising children up to 3 years old by enabling them to continue their education. The head of state approved the initiatives, signed a decree, and gave instructions to widely promote the new measures among the public.