In member countries of the Organization of Turkic States, the older generation is treated differently compared to other countries in the world. This is clearly evident in the special respect shown to them and in their pension provision. As an example, the fraternal country Uzbekistan can be cited. Uzbekistan's pension system differs from other CIS countries. The difference manifests itself in the retirement age, the benefits provided to pensioners, and the pension system as a whole.
Modern.az has investigated the pension system in Uzbekistan.
Pension System in Uzbekistan
Pension reforms in the CIS region have been rapidly changing in recent years. A number of countries are transitioning to models based on individual savings and insurance capital. However, Uzbekistan still largely prefers the classic state-distributive system. This approach is one of the main features distinguishing the country in the region. In Uzbekistan, pensions are primarily financed through the state social insurance mechanism. The system is based on providing for current pensioners through insurance contributions paid by the working generation. This model differs from the individual savings system applied in countries like Kazakhstan. In those countries, capital accumulated in a citizen's personal account forms the basis of their future pension. In Uzbekistan, however, the individual savings mechanism is limited, and the system is more centralized.
According to the decree of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the minimum amounts of pensions and benefits in the country have been increased. Based on the latest documents signed by the President and the social indicators set for 2026, the main changes are as follows:
Minimum pension by age: 918,000 sum (75.5 dollars) per month
Minimum disability pension: 1,012,000 sum (83 dollars) per month
Base amount for pension calculation: 428,000 sum (35 dollars)
Although the mentioned amount may seem small, it is considered satisfactory for an average pensioner in Uzbekistan given the low inflation and affordability.
Key Innovations and Reforms
Growth exceeding inflation: Starting from 2026, the annual indexation of wages, pensions, and benefits in Uzbekistan is planned to be carried out at rates higher than the official inflation level.
"My Pension" platform: Starting from the spring of 2026, citizens will be able to pre-calculate their future pension amounts online.
Budget allocations: Approximately 86.1 trillion sum is planned to be allocated from the state budget for pension payments in 2026.
Pension system reform: In February 2026, the introduction of fundamental innovations and the development of comprehensive reforms in the pension provision system were announced.
Retirement Age
Currently, the retirement age in Uzbekistan is 60 for men and 55 for women. In most CIS countries, the retirement age has been gradually increased. For example, in Russia and Kazakhstan, the indicator is higher. In this regard, Uzbekistan presents itself as a country striving to protect social sensitivity. However, experts believe that a lower age limit could create an additional burden on the state budget in the long term.
Benefits
In Uzbekistan, pensioner benefits primarily apply to individuals with a certain social status. These individuals are:
- War veterans
- Persons with disabilities
- Citizens with special state awards
Additional payments and utility concessions are applied for these categories. In state medical institutions, a free or subsidized service mechanism is available for pensioners.
In other CIS countries, however, some social packages apply to a wider population. For example, in some countries, a general concession mechanism for utility costs is applied to all pensioners.
