Uzbekistan Adopts Law Establishing Modern Social Work System

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan has adopted the Law on Social Work, aimed at improving the country's social protection system, enhancing the quality of social services and establishing a unified legal framework for the sector. The law was signed on 23 July 2026 under No. ZRU-1159.

The law introduces a preventive approach to addressing social issues.

Under the new framework, the institution of professional social workers will be introduced. They will work in polyclinics, schools, employment centres, courts, internal affairs bodies and penal institutions.

According to the law, the need of individuals and families for social support will be determined not only on the basis of income but also through a comprehensive assessment of their living circumstances.

An individual social support plan is to be developed for each person or family requiring assistance.

The National Agency for Social Protection has been designated as the specially authorised state body responsible for social work.

The law also defines the powers and responsibilities of the Cabinet of Ministers, executive authorities and local government bodies. It provides for the participation of citizens' self-government bodies, non-governmental non-profit organisations, businesses and citizens in delivering social assistance.

The legislation establishes the types of social services and social assistance, the procedures for recognising individuals and families as being in need of social protection, the grounds for granting and terminating social support, and the sources of its financing. It also defines the legal status, social guarantees and restrictions applicable to social workers.