Foreign language teachers reportedly being forced out of jobs in Uzbekistan – Labor Inspectorate

Cases of foreign language teachers in Uzbekistan being forced to resign or dismissed without pay are increasing, according to the State Labor Inspectorate.

The inspectorate reported a rise in complaints from foreign language teachers who say they were not paid their salaries, were unlawfully dismissed, or were pressured into writing resignation letters.

The Labor Inspectorate emphasized that such actions by employers toward teachers violate labor legislation and constitute legal offenses.

“The State Labor Inspectorate informs that appropriate measures, including liability measures, will be taken in accordance with established procedures for every confirmed case. If you or your acquaintances have encountered such situations, please submit a complaint. Each case will be reviewed within the framework of the law, and legal protection will be ensured,” the statement said.

Earlier, it was reported that foreign language teachers at schools who do not hold at least a B2-level language certificate were allowed to continue their professional activities until the end of 2025.

For reference, Clause 9 of Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 312 “On measures to effectively organize the popularization of foreign language learning” stipulates that by the 2025/2026 academic year, all foreign language teachers working in general secondary, secondary specialized, and vocational education institutions must possess at least a B2-level national certificate or an equivalent internationally recognized certificate confirming their language proficiency.