Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) – A draft law on "State Social Insurance" has been developed in Uzbekistan.

At a recent meeting of the faction of the People’s Democratic Party of Uzbekistan (PDPU) in the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, deputies discussed the proposed document.

It was noted that benefits for temporary disability and maternity leave (maternity benefits) place a significant burden on employers, with an increasing number of private sector companies failing to make these payments.

Research revealed that in some organizations, these payments are not made at all. Specifically, 15 out of 25 companies (60 percent) did not pay maternity benefits or sickness allowances, and 12 companies did not provide any benefits.

Faction members highlighted the need to address these issues in the social protection system. They proposed measures to address forced dismissals of workers from companies in financial crisis.

According to the Labor Code, when terminating an employment contract at the employer’s initiative, the employer is required to pay severance equal to one month’s salary. However, in cases of company bankruptcy, workers are left without severance pay and lose income during their job search.

The draft law provides for the introduction of a social insurance system through the Social Insurance Fund. Citizens will receive social support from the Fund when they are temporarily incapacitated (due to child illness, short-term treatment, or childbirth) or unemployed.

It was emphasized that the proposed provisions in the draft will enhance social protection for citizens. Based on this, deputies supported the draft law.

All agenda items were thoroughly reviewed at the meeting, and appropriate decisions were made.