Reform of the Social Benefits System in Uzbekistan: Transition to State Financing and Digitalized Processes

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan is implementing a comprehensive reform of its social insurance system aimed at increasing the transparency, fairness, and accessibility of maternity and temporary disability benefits.

The key changes were presented at a press conference held at the Sputnik Uzbekistan multimedia press center, with participation from representatives of relevant ministries and agencies, as well as media outlets.

One of the most significant innovations is the shift to state funding for maternity benefits. Previously, employers bore the primary financial responsibility, whereas now the payments are made directly by the government.

Experts note that the previous system created imbalances, particularly in the private sector, where employers carried a substantial burden, sometimes resulting in delays or reduced benefit amounts. Analyses showed that women in private companies received maternity benefits far less frequently than those in the public sector. The new procedure aims to eliminate these disparities and ensure equal access to social protection regardless of the ownership structure of the enterprise.

The amount of maternity benefits now directly depends on the length of the insured period:

From 10 months to 2 years — 75% of the average monthly salary;

From 2 to 5 years — 85%;

Over 5 years — 100%.

The minimum payment is set at 75% of the average monthly wage, in line with international social protection standards. All official incomes, including part-time wages, are considered in the calculation, improving fairness in benefit allocation.

The duration of maternity leave remains unchanged at 126 calendar days, extending to 140 days in certain cases.

The reform is accompanied by the implementation of digital administrative mechanisms. In January alone, 11,600 maternity leave certificates were processed automatically, and payments were already assigned for 9,000 of them.

Automation reduces document processing times, minimizes human error, and enhances procedural transparency. Benefits are transferred directly to recipients’ bank cards, with SMS notifications confirming crediting of funds.

The same system is applied to temporary disability benefits: sick pay is processed automatically, independent of payroll schedules.

Experts highlight the multi-faceted effects of the reform:

Reducing the financial burden on businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises;

Increasing protection for women in the private sector;

Encouraging formal employment by linking payments to insurance contributions;

Strengthening trust in social protection institutions.

In the long term, the updated system is designed to create a more sustainable social insurance model aligned with international practices, grounded in principles of equality and transparency.

Citizens can seek clarification through the call center at 1070 or at the “Inson” social service centers.