President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a comprehensive presentation outlining additional measures aimed at bolstering social protection in Uzbekistan. Emphasizing the principle “Uzbekistan is a social state,” these initiatives seek to support the population and enhance the provision of social services, particularly for persons with disabilities.
Digitalization of Disability Identification
A proposal involves transitioning to a digitalized system for identifying disabilities. This new system will initially be implemented in Tashkent and Navoi regions, with a nationwide rollout planned by September 1, 2025. Under this system, family doctors will electronically send medical documents to the Expert Commission. The assessment, based on World Health Organization criteria, will be conducted by staff from Inson centers. This process will not only determine disability but also create a rehabilitation program and assess the need for prosthetics.
Individualized Approaches and Barrier-Free Environments
The current procedure for expert commissions issuing recommendations on professional rehabilitation, education, and sports for persons with disabilities will be abolished. Instead, these aspects will be addressed on an individual basis. Additionally, the government plans to enhance the conditions for the safe and barrier-free movement of persons with disabilities. All new and renovated buildings will undergo mandatory examinations to ensure they meet barrier-free environment standards. Furthermore, at least 10% of the funds from the Safe Road and Safe Pedestrian Fund will be allocated annually to adapt intersections for persons with disabilities. An electronic interactive map highlighting barrier-free environments will also be created.
Improvements in Public Transport and Cultural Inclusion
Only buses adapted for persons with disabilities will be eligible for public transport tenders. In city public transport, services will be free for individuals with group I disabilities. Efforts will also be made to involve persons with disabilities in cultural and entertainment events.
Inson Project and Social Service Centers
Another initiative is the Inson project, developed in collaboration with the World Bank. This project aims to integrate vulnerable segments of the population into society through the creation of 55 multifunctional regional service centers, which will offer 20 types of social services. Additionally, four exemplary centers for inclusive vocational education will be established in Tashkent, Fergana, and Samarkand. To support these efforts, 5,000 employees will receive advanced training in social work.
Introduction of Social Cards
A groundbreaking innovation in the field of social protection is the introduction of a “social card.” This card will automate the processes of assigning, providing, monitoring, and evaluating social payments, subsidies, and services. Initially launched in Tashkent and the Yangiyul region, the social card will eventually be rolled out nationwide. It will consolidate 72 types of social services, 76 types of assistance, and approximately 200 benefits into a single electronic system, eliminating the need for paper documents and saving time and money. The digitalization will also enable the introduction of a “social digital passport,” reflecting the needs and capabilities of each family.
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