Uzbekistan Warns Local Authorities Against Forced Labor

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan’s State Labor Inspectorate has sent official warning letters to the Council of Ministers of Karakalpakstan, regional and Tashkent city hokimiyats, as well as district and city authorities, warning them against the use of forced labor.

The agency stressed that workers must not be forced, threatened or pressured into working beyond established working hours or on weekends and public holidays without their consent.

The warning is aimed at preventing violations of labor legislation and protecting workers’ rights.

According to the State Labor Inspectorate, three hokimiyat officials were held administratively liable during the first eight months of this year over cases of forced labor.

The inspectorate said all identified violations involving forced labor would be reviewed in accordance with the procedure established by law. Strict measures will be taken against those found responsible, it said.

Citizens who encounter forced labor or have information about such cases are advised to contact the State Labor Inspectorate.

Such cases can be reported through the Telegram bot @munosibmehnat_bot, by calling the hotline at +998 71 200-06-00 or the short number 1176.