29.10.2025

On October 29, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a presentation on proposals to improve the social insurance system.

As part of the “From Poverty to Prosperity” program, large-scale reforms are being implemented in the country to increase citizens’ employment and expand their participation in entrepreneurship. Thanks to these measures, the poverty rate has decreased from 17 percent in 2021 to 6.8 percent, and the share of families receiving benefits as low-income households has dropped from 14 to 6.1 percent.

At the same time, the state pays special attention to preventing citizens’ loss of income and protecting them from poverty in difficult life circumstances.
During the presentation, current issues requiring resolution were identified.

In particular, not all citizens employed in the private sector are covered by benefits for maternity leave, temporary disability, or dismissal. This is due to the fact that such payments often increase production costs and reduce the competitiveness of enterprises. Employers, in turn, view these expenses as an additional burden. In addition, the amount of maternity benefits reimbursed from the state budget remains low, which makes the system unattractive for entrepreneurs.

Meanwhile, in accordance with the conventions of the International Labour Organization – “On Minimum Standards of Social Security” and “On the Protection of Maternity” – maternity and sickness benefits should be provided through social insurance mechanisms.

During the presentation, proposals were considered to expand public access to social benefits and align the national social insurance system with international standards.

It is planned that all officially employed citizens will gradually be covered by payments from the Social Protection Fund. Starting in 2026, the fund will begin paying maternity benefits, and from the second half of 2026 – temporary disability benefits.

As the President emphasized, the main goal of the new system is not only to strengthen the social protection of women and workers but also to encourage formal employment relations.

The Head of State approved the presented proposals and gave specific instructions on digitalizing the social insurance system, ensuring its transparency, and introducing a proactive procedure for assigning and paying benefits.