Strengthening Support for Labor Migration in Tajikistan: Assessment and Recommendations

The article discusses the state of international migration out of Tajikistan and proposes programs and services to support migrant workers, especially those affected by COVID-19. Migration for work is crucial for many households, but the pandemic has caused international migration flows to fall and remittances to decline. The article reviews international best practices and discusses ways to address migrant workers' issues related to the pandemic.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 86 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2020
Publisher: Asian Development Bank

Migration for work is a crucial livelihood option for many households in Tajikistan, as limited job opportunities make it difficult to sustain themselves. Remittances from migrant workers play a significant role in supplementing the country's foreign currency reserves, contributing to its economic stability. However, the unprecedented economic crisis and global shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have led to a significant decline in international migration flows, and it is projected that remittances will also experience a significant decline.

The publication aims to provide an overview of the current state of international migration out of Tajikistan and to propose programs and services that can further strengthen support for migrant workers, particularly those who have been affected by the pandemic. It also seeks to draw upon international best practices to address the challenges faced by migrant workers during this time.

International migration for work has been a significant phenomenon in Tajikistan for many years. According to the United Nations Population Division, approximately 1.5 million people, or around 10% of the country's population, are estimated to live outside Tajikistan. The majority of these migrants are women, who are often recruited for jobs in the textile and garment industries in countries such as Russia, China, and the United Arab Emirates.

Remittances from migrant workers have been a vital source of income for Tajikistan, accounting for a significant portion of the country's foreign currency reserves. In 2019, Tajikistan received approximately $1.4 billion in remittances, which accounted for more than 20% of its GDP. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has put a significant strain on these remittances, as many migrant workers have been unable to work due to travel restrictions and workplace closures.

The economic crisis and worldwide shutdown induced by COVID-19 have had a profound impact on international migration flows. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the number of international migrants worldwide has decreased by approximately 40% since the beginning of the pandemic. This decline has been particularly significant in countries that rely heavily on migrant workers, such as Tajikistan.

The impact of the pandemic on migrant workers has been multifaceted. Many have lost their jobs and been unable to earn a living, while others have faced difficulties in accessing healthcare and social protection measures. Migrant workers who are already vulnerable due to their lack of legal status and social exclusion are particularly at risk of exploitation and abuse.

To address the challenges faced by migrant workers during the pandemic, it is important to implement programs and services that support their well-being and protect their rights. This includes providing access to healthcare, social protection measures, and legal assistance, as well as promoting safe and regular migration channels.

International best practices can also be drawn upon to address the issues faced by migrant workers. For example, countries such as the United States and Canada have implemented programs that provide temporary residency status to migrant workers who are affected by the pandemic. These programs allow migrant workers to stay in the country and work legally, while also providing access to healthcare and social protection measures.

In addition, it is important to address the root causes of migration for work, such as poverty and lack of job opportunities in Tajikistan. This can be achieved through policies that promote economic development, job creation, and social protection measures, such as access to education and healthcare.

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on international migration flows and remittances in Tajikistan. It has caused a decline in international migration flows and remittances, and has put migrant workers at risk of exploitation and abuse. To address these challenges, it is important to implement programs and services that support migrant workers' well-being and protect their rights. International best practices can also be drawn upon to address the root causes of migration for work and promote sustainable and equitable development.

ISBN-13: 9789292624712