President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has reviewed proposals to improve the social support system for homeless individuals, victims of human trafficking, and to digitalize transport benefits, according to Podrobno.uz.
A key focus is reforming the assistance system for the homeless. The existing 11 rehabilitation institutions will be transformed into temporary accommodation and social reintegration centers. Admission will be possible through self-referral, referral by social workers, prevention inspectors, or after assessment by the 'mahalla seven'.
For each person, an individual program for returning to independent life will be developed, including document restoration, medical and social assistance, vocational training, and employment support. The centers will have employment units, and vacant premises will be leased to entrepreneurs on preferential terms. Additionally, homeless individuals will be able to receive vouchers for vocational training, be included in the list of socially vulnerable categories, and job placements will be reserved for them.
A separate set of proposals focuses on strengthening the fight against human trafficking. From September 1, 2026, a new system for identifying and assessing the situation of victims will be launched through the 'Inson' centers, followed by referral to specialized services. The Republican Center for Rehabilitation and Adaptation of Women will be transformed into the Republican Center for Rehabilitation of Women and Children. Its regional branches in Karakalpakstan, Kashkadarya, Samarkand, and Fergana regions will create 40 additional places for women victims of trafficking and their minor children. It is also proposed to establish separate criminal liability for child trafficking, restrict the right of those convicted of such crimes to engage in labor and external migration activities, and strengthen control over the quality of services provided.
Another initiative is the digitalization of the preferential travel system. Currently, over 48,400 citizens, including people with disabilities, war veterans, and Chernobyl liquidators, use transport benefits. Under the new procedure, 11 categories of citizens will retain free travel or a 50% discount on air, rail, and intercity transport, but paper coupons will be abolished. To receive the benefit, it will be enough to present an ID card or biometric passport, and the right to a discount will be automatically verified by the 'Unified National Social Protection' information system. From January 1, 2027, preferential air, rail, and intercity bus tickets can be purchased online through the Baraka social card mobile application.
Source: podrobno.uz