Uzbekistan’s War on Forced Labor: From Systemic Eradication to Sustainable Reform (2021-2025)

Abstract

This article analyzes Uzbekistan's significant transition from a state-orchestrated system of forced labor in its cotton sector to a period of ongoing, complex reforms aimed at establishing sustainable labor rights. It chronicles the historical context of the international boycott led by the Cotton Campaign, which, combined with internal political will, led to the eradication of systemic and child forced labor, as verified by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2021. The subsequent lifting of the boycott in 2022 marked a pivotal success, largely attributed to the abolition of the state-mandated cotton quota system.

The paper argues that while top-down prohibition has been successful, Uzbekistan now faces “second-generation” challenges. These include the emergence of localized coercion in the privatized agricultural sector, significant weaknesses in the legal framework that hinder accountability for perpetrators, and a constrained environment for independent civil society and trade unions. The analysis details the legislative overhaul, including a new Constitution and Labor Code, but points out critical flaws, such as treating first-time forced labor offenses as administrative rather than criminal violations. It also examines the evolution of institutional frameworks like the National Commission on Issues of Combating Human Trafficking and Decent Work and the enhanced powers of the State Labor Inspectorate.

The article further explores the maturing partnership with the international community, highlighting the shift from scrutiny to technical cooperation through initiatives like the ILO's Decent Work Country Programme (2021-2025) and the joint ILO-IFC “Better Work” program, which aims to embed high labor standards in the burgeoning textile industry. The crucial role of International Financial Institutions, such as the World Bank and the EBRD, in financing and supporting these reforms is also underscored.

In conclusion, the report posits that while the victory over systemic forced labor is historic, the long-term sustainability of these gains depends on shifting from state-led prohibition to a multi-stakeholder accountability model. Key recommendations include criminalizing all instances of forced labor, building the capacity of the State Labor Inspectorate, and linking international support to measurable progress on unresolved issues like freedom of association and criminal liability reform.