The ILO and IFC have introduced the Better Work program in Uzbekistan, aiming to improve working conditions and competitiveness in the textile and garment industry. On May 30, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed by the IFC, ILO, Uzbekistan's government, employers, and workers' organizations, outlining the program's terms. Better Work will focus on compliance assessments, training, and advisory services to promote labor standards and enhance competitiveness in textile and garment factories.

This partnership is a significant step for Uzbekistan's cotton, textile, and garment production, opening doors to new export markets. As a leading cotton producer, Uzbekistan has undergone notable reforms. Better Work will play a crucial role in upholding labor standards across the country's textile and garment factories, acting as an industry facilitator.

The program seeks to support sustainable growth in the sector, creating decent job opportunities, especially for women in rural areas. Conor Boyle, Officer-in-Charge of Better Work, emphasized the program's dedication to this objective.

The MoU builds on collaborative efforts among the Uzbek government, World Bank Group, ILO, and other stakeholders to enhance labor and environmental standards in cotton fields. Since 2016, the IFC has provided advisory support and investments to Uzbekistan's cotton and textile industry. In 2022, the ILO successfully eradicated systemic child and forced labor from Uzbekistan's cotton production cycle. Initial funding for the Better Work Uzbekistan program was contributed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).