Sweden eyes recruitment of labor migrants from Uzbekistan

The two countries signed a declaration on cooperation in labor migration, including efforts to combat illegal migration.

Sweden is considering the recruitment of labor migrants from Uzbekistan, according to a statement from the Migration Agency’s press service.

Behzod Musaev, Director of the Migration Agency, and Sweden’s Minister of Migration, Johan Forssell, discussed measures to prevent illegal migration and establish transparent mechanisms for organized migration.

The agency noted that Sweden currently faces labor shortages in sectors such as transportation, construction, industry, healthcare, education, and services due to demographic trends. Uzbekistan, in turn, has significant potential to train and supply qualified professionals to meet labor market demands.

The parties proposed creating a centralized digital platform to facilitate cooperation between the two countries. They also suggested launching pilot projects to train highly skilled Uzbek workers and provide employment opportunities in Sweden, tailored to employer needs in construction, logistics, and healthcare.

“During the meeting, a joint declaration on cooperation in migration and labor migration was signed, aimed at strengthening mechanisms to combat illegal migration, enhance information exchange, and provide consular support,” the statement read.

Sweden’s Minister of Migration, Johan Forssell, described the signed document as “historic,” noting that the agreement marks an important step in elevating Uzbek-Swedish relations to a new level.