President Mirziyoyev criticizes Foreign Ministry for passive response to citizens’ rights violations abroad

The criticism was voiced during a videoconference meeting reviewing the performance of the Foreign Ministry and Uzbekistan’s diplomatic missions abroad, where violations of citizens’ rights in foreign countries featured prominently on the agenda.

“The fact that many of our citizens remain abroad in an illegal status is a serious concern for the state,” the president said.

According to the presidential press service, more than 150,000 Uzbek citizens benefited from a migration amnesty in Russia in 2025. Participants in the meeting stressed the need to expand efforts to help citizens legalize their employment in other countries, step up negotiations with foreign partners on labor migration, and at the same time ensure that migrants themselves comply with the laws and regulations of host states.

Going forward, work with labor migrants in countries where migration flows are growing, particularly in Europe, has been defined as a key responsibility of consular officers at Uzbek embassies. The president also ordered further simplification of consular registration procedures and a reduction in excessive bureaucracy.

Special attention was drawn to reports of rights violations against Uzbek citizens during raids conducted in several foreign countries, which have triggered widespread public concern. In many such cases, it was noted, the Foreign Ministry has limited its response to issuing formal diplomatic notes.

“Ambassadors and consuls must provide qualified legal assistance in every individual case and ensure real protection of the rights and legitimate interests of our citizens abroad,” Mirziyoyev said.

The president also underscored the risks associated with the involvement of Uzbek youth and students overseas in various movements and groups, calling for closer oversight.

As part of a shift away from what he termed “desk diplomacy,” ambassadors were instructed to personally visit construction sites, dormitories, and university campuses where Uzbek nationals work or study, identify problems firsthand, and pursue practical solutions on the ground.

In addition, officials were tasked with setting up a free call center for citizens facing difficulties abroad and establishing a system to ensure their appeals are handled promptly in coordination with relevant government agencies.