A recent report from the Ministry of Health of Russia has highlighted a concerning development for migrant labourers from Tajikistan and Uzbekistan: they will be deprived of free medical care until 2026 under the compulsory medical insurance (CMI) framework. The policy shift mandates that citizens from these Central Asian countries must obtain voluntary medical insurance (VMI) policies or rely on their employers to cover medical expenses.
The decision follows the aftermath of the Crocus City Hall terrorist attack, prompting the Russian Interior Ministry to impose stringent measures concerning migrants. These measures include reducing the duration of temporary stays for foreigners to 90 days per calendar year, implementing mandatory biometric identification upon entry, and establishing digital profiles for foreigners.
Some proposals even advocate for more drastic measures, such as introducing a visa regime between Russia and Central Asian countries, as suggested by Sergei Mironov, chairman of the Just Russia – For Truth political party.
Despite these challenges, Uzbekistan has been proactive in protecting the interests of its migrant workers, both domestically and internationally. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s recent decree reflects this commitment by providing financial support for various expenses incurred by migrant workers, including qualification exams, work visa applications, and travel tickets. Additionally, migrants receive subsidies for insurance and are entitled to free medical examinations. In cases of rights violations, free legal counsel and support through migrant support call centers are available.
Furthermore, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Employment is actively negotiating the establishment of representative offices or centers in key destination countries such as Great Britain, Germany, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. These offices aim to provide legal assistance to migrant workers and facilitate their transition back to Uzbekistan by offering employment opportunities or subsidies to start their own businesses.