Forced labour and human exploitation violate human rights

Everyone has the right to choose their work freely, work in safe conditions and retain their dignity. Forcing someone to work through threats, violence or abuse of dependency violates these rights. Employment relationships must rest on lawful conditions and freely given consent, rather than fear.

Article 5 of Uzbekistan’s Labour Code prohibits forced labour. It means work or services demanded under threat of a penalty for which the person has not volunteered. Pressure is not limited to physical force: financial or psychological coercion, or threats of such measures, also matter. Certain narrowly defined forms of work and service are excluded by law.

Confiscating passports, restricting movement from a workplace, forcing someone to work off a debt or withholding earnings to prevent departure may be warning signs. However, not every delayed wage payment or difficult working condition automatically constitutes forced labour. Coercion, free consent and the surrounding circumstances must be assessed together.

Initially agreeing to a job does not mean accepting every subsequent condition. Workers have the right to end employment through the procedures established by law. Receiving wages does not make threats or restrictions on freedom lawful. Workplace discipline cannot justify forcing people to work through violence.

Such conduct may lead to administrative or criminal liability when the statutory conditions are met. The Criminal Code separately establishes liability for administrative coercion to work. Where recruitment, transportation or other conduct for exploitation is involved, the circumstances may also be examined for human trafficking.

Calling an activity at an educational institution or workplace “voluntary” is insufficient: people must have a real choice. Threatening unlawful punishment for refusing or forcing someone to sign a consent statement does not establish genuine voluntariness. Protecting the health and safety of minors requires particular attention.

If you experience coercion, contact the State Labour Inspectorate or law enforcement when safe. Abroad, assistance can also be sought from Uzbekistan’s embassy or consulate. Preserve existing contracts, messages and payment information securely. Those affected should receive support in accessing protection and assistance, rather than blame.