Uzbekistan Quality Job Creation as a Cornerstone for Sustainable Economic Growth

Unlocking the Potential for Labor Productivity Growth
In September 2018, the Strategy for Innovative Development of the country 
for 2019–2021 and the road map for its implementation was approved by a 
Presidential Decree. The strategy’s main goal is “the development of human 
capital as the main factor determining the level of a country’s competitiveness 
in the global market and its innovative progress.” Among the strategy’s 
main objectives is that by 2030 Uzbekistan will be among the top 50 
countries according to the Global Innovation Index rating. Other objectives 
include an improved quality and coverage of education at all levels and the 
development of the system of continuing education. Measures will also be 
taken to strengthen the scientific potential and effectiveness of research and 
development. Effective mechanisms will be created for integrating education, 
science, and entrepreneurship for the widespread introduction of the results of 
research and development. Increased investment of public and private funds 
in innovation, research, development, and technological work is planned. 
3.4. Employment Structure and Job Quality
As in all other countries, Uzbekistan is being affected by technological change 
that is displacing unskilled labor with skilled workers and capital. The growth in 
skilled labor demand and a rise in labor productivity is a global phenomenon, 
and countries that adopt global technology will face the challenge of a low 
employment intensity of economic growth. On a business-as-usual scenario, 
these trends may lead to higher unemployment of basic labor and an increased 
wage premium for skilled labor, which will jeopardize inclusive growth if 
focused policies that address both the demand and supply sides of the labor 
market are not adopted.
The structure of employment is moving toward greater industry and