MANAGING INTERNATIONAL LABOR MIGRATION: POLICY APPROACHES AND STRATEGIC PRIORITIES OF UZBEKISTAN

Uzbekistan has emerged as one of the leading labor‑sending countries in Central Asia, with millions of citizens working abroad and contributing significantly to household income through remittances. This study examines the country’s management of international labor migration, focusing on key policy approaches, institutional frameworks, and strategic priorities. Drawing on secondary sources, including government reports, legal documents, and international organization data, the research highlights recent reforms such as the establishment of a centralized Migration Agency and digitalization through the “Work Abroad” platform. The analysis further explores Uzbekistan’s efforts to diversify migration destinations through bilateral agreements with countries in Europe and Asia, aiming to optimize economic benefits, enhance migrant protection, and align migration with national development goals. The findings underscore the importance of structured legal and institutional mechanisms, digital innovation, skills development, and international cooperation in creating a sustainable, skill-driven, and development-oriented labor migration system.