During the Global Coalition for Social Justice Forum in Geneva, Tanzila Narbayeva, Chairperson of the Senate, delivered an official statement at a panel discussion on “Dialogue of partners – the economy of human rights”. She emphasized that Uzbekistan’s 2030 Strategy, initiated by the President, places great importance on protecting human rights, promoting social justice, and improving living conditions for all citizens. The statement highlighted the need for economic and social policies to prioritize citizens’ interests and for human rights to be the foundation of a sustainable and inclusive economy.
It was noted that Uzbekistan’s main priorities include developing human potential, combating corruption, effective governance, and achieving environmental sustainability, all of which are in line with a human rights-based economy. In recent years, Uzbekistan has made significant progress in terms of labor rights, ratifying all major ILO conventions and incorporating international standards into the Constitution and Labor Code. The institution of collective agreements has also been strengthened to protect the rights of women, youth, and vulnerable groups. Social protection is considered a fundamental right, not just a privilege.
The National Strategy for Social Protection until 2030, developed in cooperation with the ILO, aims to provide universal coverage, social services, social insurance, and active measures in the labor market. The statement also emphasized the importance of integrating human rights principles into global financial management systems to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and uphold the “No one should be forgotten” principle.
During the event, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights recognized Uzbekistan’s positive experience in human rights in recent years. Uzbekistan reaffirmed its willingness to cooperate and exchange experiences, with a firm stance that all policies, budgets, and reforms should consider human rights.
During her visit to Geneva, Tanzila Narbayeva, Chairperson of the Senate and Chairperson of the National Commission on Combating Human Trafficking and Forced Labour, met with Corinne Vargha, Director of the ILO International Labour Standards Department. They discussed Uzbekistan’s efforts to ratify international labor conventions and develop a special roadmap based on the ILO’s recommendations. The Decent Work Country Program for Uzbekistan for 2021-2025 is also being implemented, including plans for the further development of the Institute of Labor Inspection.
Ms. Vargha praised Uzbekistan’s achievements in ensuring labor rights and noted that it has become a reliable partner of the ILO, demonstrating its commitment to international standards. Uzbekistan’s labor inspection system can serve as a model for other countries, and the ILO is ready to continue providing comprehensive support.
Norgul Abduraimova, UzA