The President of Uzbekistan signed Decree No. UP-240 'On additional measures for the further promotion of volunteer activities' on November 6, 2026. This document introduces the 'Fidoi Volunteer' distinction, establishes a professional volunteering program for students, and grants volunteers an advantage when seeking employment at 'Inson' social service centers.
The goal of this decree is to transform volunteering into a nationwide movement under the slogan 'Ezguilik sari qadam' ('Step towards goodness') and to expand international cooperation in this field. To achieve these goals, it is planned to organize socially significant events, projects, and campaigns involving volunteers, protect their rights and freedoms, and recognize their contributions through financial and non-financial incentives.
In addition to establishing the distinction, the decree provides for a wide celebration of International Volunteer Day on December 5 and the regular holding of the Asian Volunteer Forum with the participation of international organizations and representatives from foreign countries.
The main tasks for promoting volunteer activities include strengthening social responsibility, solidarity, mutual assistance, and compassion among the population, especially among young people. The decree is also aimed at encouraging voluntary aid to socially vulnerable citizens, elderly people living alone, persons with disabilities, and charitable initiatives focused on environmental protection.
Starting in 2027, short-term courses will be organized within the framework of the Service Learning program, which combines education with public service to develop knowledge and volunteering skills among the population, particularly among youth and civil servants. The 'Kasbiy Volontyorlik' (Professional Volunteering) program will be launched for students of public universities and technical colleges.
State bodies and organizations are obliged to create conditions that allow students to participate in volunteer groups outside of their academic schedule. Participation must be voluntary, and the activity must correspond to the student's field of study. Starting January 1, 2027, an experimental agreement will grant candidates with volunteer experience an advantage when applying for social worker positions at 'Inson' social service centers, provided that the candidates have equal qualification scores.
