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Population
Uzbekistan has a population of approximately 35 million (as of 2023), making it the most populous country in Central Asia. The majority of the population consists of Uzbeks, who make up about 80% of the total. There are also significant minorities, including Russians, Tajiks, Kazakhs, and Karakalpaks. Uzbekistan is a youthful nation, with about one-third of its population under the age of 14.
Capital
The capital of Uzbekistan is Tashkent, the largest city in the country and its economic and cultural hub. Tashkent is a modern metropolis with major cultural institutions, universities, and an important role as a regional transportation center.
Economic Strength
Uzbekistan’s economy is one of the most dynamic in Central Asia, fueled by substantial resources such as cotton, gold, natural gas, and uranium. Since gaining independence, Uzbekistan has implemented economic reforms aimed at transitioning from a heavily state-controlled economy to a more market-oriented one. While agriculture continues to play a key role, the industrial and services sectors are expanding, especially in areas such as textile production, automotive manufacturing, and IT services.
Culture
Uzbekistan has a rich cultural heritage shaped by its history along the Silk Road, Islamic traditions, and Persian influences. The country is renowned for its historical architecture in cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. Sunni Islam is the dominant religion. The Uzbek language is the official language, though Russian is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and in government. Festivals like Nowruz (Persian New Year) and religious holidays are important cultural events.
Currency
The official currency of Uzbekistan is the Uzbekistani Som (UZS). The exchange rate has remained relatively stable in recent years as the government implements reforms to liberalize its foreign exchange markets. One Som is subdivided into 100 Tiyin, although Tiyin coins are rarely in circulation today.
Health Insurance and Social Security System
Uzbekistan has a state-run healthcare system, providing citizens with basic medical care, though the quality varies, particularly in rural areas. A formal health insurance system is still under development. The country’s social security fund covers pensions, unemployment benefits, and disability assistance. Both employers and employees contribute to the social security system.
Employer Costs
Employers in Uzbekistan are required to contribute to the social security system, which amounts to 12% of an employee’s gross salary. These contributions cover pensions and disability benefits. Employers are also responsible for paying income taxes on behalf of employees and may offer voluntary health insurance, especially in larger or international companies.
Salary and Bonuses
The minimum wage in Uzbekistan is approximately 920,000 UZS per month (around USD 80 as of 2023). Actual salaries vary widely depending on the sector, region, and qualifications. Annual bonuses, such as the “13th salary,” are not legally required but are common in larger or international companies.
Payslip
Salaries in Uzbekistan are typically paid monthly. Employers are required to issue payslips that detail the gross salary, deductions for taxes and social security contributions, as well as any overtime or bonuses. Employers are responsible for withholding and remitting income tax to the relevant authorities.
Public Holidays
Uzbekistan celebrates a variety of national and religious holidays. Key public holidays include:
- Nowruz (March 21, Persian New Year)
- Independence Day (September 1)
- Constitution Day (December 8)
- Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan, variable)
- Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice, variable)
Employees are entitled to paid time off on these holidays or additional compensation if they work on those days.
Working Hours
The standard working hours in Uzbekistan are 40 hours per week, typically spread over five days. Overtime is allowed but must be compensated at a rate of 1.5 times the regular hourly wage. Special working hour regulations exist for young employees and pregnant women, offering reduced hours or other protective measures.
Leave
Employees in Uzbekistan are entitled to at least 15 days of paid annual leave. This entitlement can increase based on length of employment or specific employment contracts. Additionally, maternity leave is set at 126 days (70 days before and 56 days after childbirth), and additional leave is granted for special occasions.
Sick Leave
In case of illness, employees are entitled to sick leave, with compensation provided through the state social insurance fund. The amount of sick pay depends on the length of employment and the contributions made to the fund. An official medical certificate is required to claim sick leave.
Termination/Severance
Terminations in Uzbekistan must comply with the provisions of labor law. Typically, the notice period ranges from two weeks to one month, depending on the employment duration and contract terms. Employees are entitled to severance pay under certain conditions, particularly in cases of layoffs due to economic challenges or redundancy. The severance pay is often calculated as one month’s salary for each year of service.