Migration – A Movement for Development, Security, and Human Dignity

IOM and the Migration Agency: Practical Cooperation for Effective Migration Management in Uzbekistan

Labor migration in Uzbekistan has become not only an economic necessity but also one of the key factors for ensuring social stability, public well-being, and the protection of human rights. Since 2003, a number of systemic reforms and practice-oriented projects have been implemented in the country through cooperation between the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Migration Agency.

Two Wings — Two Directions of Action

The work of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is based on “two wings”: providing direct services to citizens and strengthening the capacity of state institutions. This approach ensures comprehensive coverage — from legislation to the life decisions of each individual.

Today, IOM works extensively with the Migration Agency, the Ministry of Employment and Labor Relations, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Central Bank, local administrations, the mahalla system, and NGOs.

From National Strategy to Practice

The National Migration Strategy for 2025–2030 is one of the most important outcomes of the strategic partnership between IOM and the Migration Agency. The strategy was developed on the principles of human rights, gender equality, and transparent governance.

This document is not only a political roadmap but also a set of practical programs aimed at achieving tangible results. In particular, it addresses issues such as ensuring legal and informational protection for citizens working abroad, reducing the risks of irregular migration, and creating reintegration opportunities for returnees.

2023–2024: Work Initiated, Practical Solutions

Over the past two years, within the framework of IOM–Migration Agency cooperation, pre-departure orientation (PDO) courses were revised, modules were standardized and adapted for destinations such as the UK, Kazakhstan, the UAE, and Turkey. The Agency’s call center was upgraded, operators were trained, and migrant advisory services were launched. A financial literacy module was also developed and trainers were prepared.

In addition, reintegration programs were implemented to provide returning migrants with retraining opportunities, small business grants, and psychosocial support. Under the UK Seasonal Worker Visa scheme, protection mechanisms were strengthened and awareness of the GLAA (Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority) was increased.

Combating “Intermediaries” — Legal Protection and Information Transparency

One of the priorities of IOM and government agencies is to reduce the risks of citizens being deceived by intermediaries and drawn into irregular channels. To this end, user-friendly guidelines, infographics, and videos on legal employment abroad have been produced, along with the establishment of legal advisory centers.

For migrants and their families, easily accessible “one-stop” information resources have become an essential tool.

Future Goals: Digitalization, Skills, and Linking to Labor Markets

In the coming 1–2 years, the priority tasks include the digitalization of PDO centers and the improvement of trainer qualifications; launching courses in IT, services, and care sectors; strengthening reintegration centers and grant programs for returnees; expanding legal migration channels through deeper agreements with the UK, Japan, Germany, and Qatar; ensuring systematic migration data analysis; and strengthening awareness-raising activities at the regional level.

In Conclusion

Migration is not just about finding a job. It is about protecting human dignity, making the right choices in life decisions, and strengthening trust between citizens and the state.

Through practical cooperation between IOM and the Migration Agency, Uzbekistan is building an effective migration management system that creates safe conditions for citizens and serves national interests.

Above all, this system must protect and value human life.