THE STATUS OF JOB RESERVATION AND UTILIZATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN THE REPUBLIC OF UZBEKISTAN

Abstract

This article analyzes the practice of reserving jobs to ensure the employment of persons with disabilities in Uzbekistan, its effectiveness, and the existing challenges in this area. The study draws on statistical data and reports of the Ministry of Poverty Reduction and Employment for the period 2018–2024. According to the results of the analysis, the average utilization rate of jobs reserved for socially vulnerable persons was 81.3%, whereas the corresponding figure for persons with disabilities was only 23.7%. One of the main problems identified is that reserved jobs are not sufficiently aligned with the occupations, qualifications, health conditions, working capacities, and individual needs of persons with disabilities. The study also reveals significant regional disparities in vocational training, retraining, and professional development opportunities available to persons with disabilities. The article proposes practical and research-based measures, including determining the number of reserved jobs according to actual demand, establishing a unified electronic register, reviewing vacant reserved positions on a quarterly basis, and adapting them to the professional abilities and qualifications of job seekers.