Uzbekistan: A Humane and Strategic Approach to Labor Migration Management

In recent years, Uzbekistan has undertaken wide-ranging reforms in the field of labor migration, establishing a comprehensive system to ensure the safe, legal, and dignified employment of its citizens abroad. These reforms are aimed not only at protecting the rights and interests of migrants, but also at enhancing their professional skills and supporting their long-term social and economic integration.

Institutional Reforms and New Legal Framework

The Migration Agency under the Cabinet of Ministers serves as the authorized state body responsible for coordinating all aspects of labor migration. In October 2024, a Presidential Decree reorganized the agency’s operations to introduce a more modern, service-oriented model. The new system prioritizes legal employment channels, professional and language training, and support services for citizens both before departure and after returning to Uzbekistan.

The overarching goal is to manage labor migration in a safe, orderly, and humane way. Uzbekistan views labor migration not only as a source of economic benefit, but also as a means of expanding human capital and strengthening social stability.

Expanding International Cooperation

Uzbekistan is actively expanding international partnerships to create legal employment opportunities overseas. The country is developing cooperation with Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and several EU member states including Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Sweden.

A major milestone was achieved in 2024 when Uzbekistan and Germany signed an Intergovernmental Agreement on Comprehensive Partnership in Migration and Mobility. Comprising 25 articles, the agreement facilitates the fair and structured mobility of qualified specialists, students, trainees, journalists, and researchers. It also creates pathways for temporary labor migration as well as longer-term employment and skills development.

Furthermore:

• A Joint Declaration was signed with Sweden to combat illegal migration, strengthen information exchange, and improve consular protection.

• A Government-to-Government Agreement with France supports the mobility of specialists and students.

• A Memorandum of Understanding with Italy enables the recruitment of Uzbek professionals in the healthcare sector.

• Belgium is also being considered as a future strategic partner in the fields of employment, qualifications, and vocational training standards.

Training and Protection of Citizens

Uzbekistan places special emphasis on preparing its citizens to meet international labor market requirements. Specialized training centers across the country provide courses in foreign languages, professional qualifications, and labor legislation.

Partnerships with globally recognized companies—such as Hyundai Heavy Industries (Republic of Korea), SBH WEST GmbH (Germany), and Proud Partners (Japan)—enable Uzbek workers to receive internationally accredited certifications and access high-quality employment opportunities.

In addition to training, a comprehensive support system has been established:

• Through the Migration Fund, microloans are provided to cover costs such as visas, insurance, and airfare.

• Uzbekistan’s overseas representations actively protect the rights of its citizens by monitoring working and living conditions.

• In the first half of 2025 alone, more than 80,000 citizens received financial or informational assistance through these mechanisms.

Human-Centered Policy Approach

Uzbekistan views labor migration not simply as an economic process, but as a humanitarian priority within state policy. The government is committed to creating favorable conditions for citizens to work abroad legally, maintain decent livelihoods, and contribute to their families’ well-being.

To further enhance transparency and accessibility, migration services are being progressively digitalized, and modern technologies are being introduced into administrative processes.

Conclusion

Uzbekistan’s policy on labor migration is fully aligned with international standards and guided by the principles of human dignity, legal protection, and social responsibility. By strengthening international cooperation and expanding legal employment opportunities, Uzbekistan aims to ensure sustainable economic growth and improve the welfare of its citizens. Through these reforms, labor migration is increasingly becoming a driver of national development, human capital growth, and global integration.