Turkmenistan and ILO Strengthen Collaboration on Monitoring Workplace Conditions

The Government of Turkmenistan and the International Labor Organization (ILO) have agreed to a protocol that extends their collaboration on overseeing working conditions during the cotton harvest through 2025.

The document supplements the Memorandum of Understanding signed on September 14, 2023, and envisages field visits and monitoring activities with the participation of international observers, The Caspian Post reports citing Trend.

As part of labor reforms, in 2024 Turkmenistan amended national legislation to expand the list of jobs classified as harmful and hazardous, officially adding the professions of “cotton picker” and “cotton grower.” This change prohibits the employment of individuals under 18 years of age in these roles.

The measures are being implemented under the Roadmap for Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the ILO for 2024-2025, which also includes awareness campaigns and training for local authorities and social partners.