Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The World Bank has released a new study analyzing current migration trends, challenges, and prospects in Europe and Central Asia. The report was presented to government officials responsible for regulating external migration, along with experts from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.

Migration remains one of the key challenges for the region, home to 100 million migrants—one-third of the global migrant population. Income disparities, demographic imbalances, climate change, and armed conflicts continue to drive migration flows.

As of 2023, over 80% of labor migrants from Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan headed to Russia. Meanwhile, migration flows from Uzbekistan were more diverse: 57% of Uzbek migrants worked in Russia, 15% in Kazakhstan, and 10% in Ukraine.

Labor migration is a vital source of income for millions in Central Asia. In 2024, remittances from labor migrants accounted for 45% of Tajikistan’s GDP—the highest relative figure in the world. In Kyrgyzstan, remittances made up 24% of GDP, while in Uzbekistan, they accounted for 14%.

Working abroad allows migrants to increase their income two to three times, significantly improving their families’ living standards. In Kyrgyzstan, the poverty rate among households receiving remittances is below 10%, whereas without these funds, it would exceed 50%. In Uzbekistan, the absence of remittances would raise the poverty rate from 9.6% to 16.8%, according to estimates.

The World Bank report, “The Road Ahead: Supporting Successful Migration in Europe and Central Asia,” provides a detailed analysis of migration processes and their impact on government policies. It aims to foster a more informed discussion on the benefits and challenges of cross-border mobility.

When effectively managed, migration can help address socio-demographic imbalances in the region. However, the report notes that its economic potential remains underutilized.

International coordination is crucial for the successful regulation of migration, ensuring that the benefits are shared fairly. Among the key recommendations in the report is the need to distinguish different categories of migrants when developing policies. This includes differentiating between high-skilled and low-skilled workers, as well as between those migrating for economic opportunities and those displaced by armed conflicts. Migration policies should be data-driven and aligned at both national and regional levels.

Integrating migration into human capital development and labor market competitiveness strategies is also essential. Governments must create opportunities for migrants to acquire necessary skills and knowledge through programs that develop domestic labor markets. Additionally, immigration strategies should be designed to meet the demands of key external labor markets.

The report highlights the issue of brain drain and calls for integrating migration into national socio-economic development strategies. Labor-exporting countries should implement labor market monitoring and co-finance educational programs to train specialists needed both at home and abroad.

Moreover, policies should encourage the return of skilled migrants. Labor market reforms and support mechanisms for professionals with international experience are necessary to facilitate their reintegration.

The report also emphasizes the importance of safe and organized migration mechanisms. Labor-sending countries should establish migrant registration systems, while bilateral agreements with host countries should ensure migrant rights protection. Access to reliable employment information and working conditions abroad must be expanded.

Governments are also encouraged to negotiate the transfer of social benefits and insurance programs for their citizens in host countries, ensuring long-term social security for labor migrants.