Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The International Advisory Council has put forward a set of recommendations aimed at integrating demographic considerations into Uzbekistan’s broader sustainable development strategy.

The Council emphasized the need for a comprehensive state-led approach to emerging demographic challenges. Key priority areas include enhancing access to education—particularly for women—expanding vocational and technical training systems, promoting organized labor migration through formal contracts, and strengthening the provision of social services.

Special focus was placed on improving women’s education in regions with the highest natural population growth rates, such as Samarkand, Ferghana, Kashkadarya, and Andijan. Experts believe that advancing educational opportunities for women in these areas will significantly increase their participation in the labor market, thereby contributing to the broader socio-economic development of these regions.

The Council also stressed the importance of expanding vocational education opportunities for both young men and women. A strong system of skills training will equip the youth with relevant, in-demand competencies, especially as the economy rapidly evolves through technological advancements and digitalization.

Citing examples from Germany and Austria, the report highlights that a robust network of technical colleges and vocational schools plays a crucial role in workforce development and in addressing labor market imbalances.

One of the most strategic recommendations by the Council involves promoting legal labor migration for Uzbek citizens. This would involve establishing contractual labor frameworks with foreign countries in need of workforce support.

The most promising sectors for temporary employment include construction, agriculture, and social care. These industries typically offer seasonal or medium-term work opportunities, making them particularly suitable for organized labor migration schemes.

Such migration not only provides income for Uzbek workers but also allows them to gain valuable skills, exposure to modern technologies, and experience with advanced management practices.

According to the Council’s report, the proposed measures can form the foundation for a sustainable demographic policy. On the one hand, they help manage population growth more effectively, and on the other, they enhance the quality of human capital, support vulnerable social groups, and stimulate economic development.

Based on these recommendations, work is underway to develop a Demographic Development Strategy of Uzbekistan, aimed at ensuring the country’s long-term resilience and inclusive economic growth.