The International Labour Organization (ILO), in partnership with the Ministry of Labour, Migration and Employment of the Population of the Republic of Tajikistan, the Union of Employers of Tajikistan, and the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of the Republic of Tajikistan organized the "Employment and Skills Foresight Workshop: Tajikistan 2045" in Dushanbe on 18 July 2025. The event brought together representatives of the ILO's tripartite constituents and local experts to examine possible future scenarios developed by international and national specialists. Participants discussed the actions required to prepare the country for the evolving world of work.
It is important that we take the necessary steps to prepare ourselves for the future.
Abdurahmon Ashuralizoda, Deputy Minister for Labour, Migration and Employment of Population of the Republic of Tajikistan
Global megatrends, such as technological advancement and climate change, are profoundly reshaping economies, labour markets and societies. Tajikistan is not immune to these emerging and intensifying developments. Digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, automation and data analytics are boosting productivity and enabling new business models. While these innovations create demand for high-skilled jobs, they also reduce the need for routine, manual tasks. Climate change is also having a significant impact on the economy and labour market. It is driving demand for green jobs in sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and environmental management, while phasing out employment in carbon-intensive and resource-inefficient industries.
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Mr. Abdurahmon Ashuralizoda, Deputy Minister for Labour, Migration and Employment of Population of the Republic of Tajikistan, emphasised that the creation of 1.4 million decent work opportunities and the expansion of vocational education and training are national priorities. "It is important that we take the necessary steps to prepare ourselves for the future; otherwise, the Republic will face constraints such as a shortage of professionals and skilled workers," he stated. He added that the outcomes of the workshop would inform future labour market policies.
Reflecting on past changes in employment, the rise of new forms of work, and ongoing challenges such as informality and occupational safety and health, Mr. Jamshed Yunusov, Head of the Socio-Economic Department of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of the Republic of Tajikistan, emphasized the need to adapt labour policies. He also called for strengthened social dialogue through the tripartite commission.
Mr. Ayombek Akramov, Chairman of the Union of Employers of Tajikistan, echoed the importance of addressing emerging skills needs, embracing advanced technologies, and aligning with the requirements of a green economy. He noted that these efforts are essential for achieving the shared goal of improved living standards and productive employment.
The participants explored potential changes in employment and skills demand over the next two decades and discussed the actions needed to capitalize on future opportunities while mitigating the negative impacts of anticipated shifts. Proposed future initiatives include sector-specific interventions, forward-looking education and skills development strategies, and labour market policies designed to support the workforce in adapting to transformative changes.
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Reflecting on the outcomes of the workshop, Mr. Kazutoshi Chatani, ILO Senior Employment Specialist, emphasized the importance of foresight exercises and tripartite dialogue in shaping future policy directions. "This exercise allows tripartite constituents to form shared understandings of future opportunities and challenges, which serves as a basis for policy discussions," he added. The workshop was implemented as part of the action plan proposed by the Government of Tajikistan and funded by the ILO.
