Crimes against the order of administration: corruption

State bodies must work for the benefit of the people, and an official must not use his powers for personal gain. Corruption is the unlawful use by an official of his office or service position for personal gain or the gain of others; its signs are an official power, an unlawful benefit and harm to society. Taking a bribe means an official receiving money, property or other benefits for an act (or omission) within his powers; giving a bribe and mediation in bribery are also separate crimes, so not only the recipient but also the giver can be held liable. The line between an ordinary gift as a “sign of respect” and a bribe is that a gift is not given to influence an official act and does not exceed the value allowed by law. In Uzbekistan the fight against corruption relies on the Law on Combating Corruption (2017), officials’ income declarations, rules to prevent conflicts of interest and a special state body; a citizen can also report an unlawful demand through lawful channels. Penalties often include confiscation of property and deprivation of the right to hold certain posts.