Labor migration bill rejected for further amendments: Senate seeks stronger protections and accountability

The proposed legislation aims to regulate the processes related to the departure of citizens and stateless individuals permanently residing in Uzbekistan for temporary employment abroad, as well as the employment of foreign citizens and stateless persons within the country.

During the discussion, senators pointed out a number of issues that require reconsideration.

It was emphasized that the powers of certain government bodies involved in this area need to be revised in light of recent administrative reforms.

Particular attention was drawn to the importance of granting organizations that send workers abroad the right to monitor labor conditions jointly with the overseas representative offices of the Migration Agency.

Senators also suggested that the law should explicitly outline a mechanism for the agency to handle the return of labor migrants to Uzbekistan. In cases where the foreign sending organization fails to fulfill its obligations, the cost of repatriation should be covered by that organization.

Additionally, the Senate highlighted the need to revise the legal grounds for issuing, suspending, terminating, or revoking work permits within Uzbekistan. It was stressed that a clear legal mechanism must be established to regulate the fees charged for issuing such permits.