A delegation from Turkmenistan recently participated in a high-level meeting of the Council of Trade Unions of Central Asian Countries held in Tashkent. The primary objective of the session was to restructure the existing regional body to better address contemporary labor challenges. After thorough deliberations, representatives from across the region reached a consensus to elevate the organization’s status to a formal international confederation.

The newly formed confederation officially includes trade union federations from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Mongolia. Turkmenistan, while actively engaged in the proceedings, has maintained its observer status within the organization. This strategic transformation aims to grant the body full legal capacity to engage as an equal partner with international labor organizations and global trade union alliances.

During the session, the organizational framework was solidified with the approval of a new charter and the election of Kudratilla Rafikov as Secretary General. The leadership structure now comprises a 15-member General Council and an Executive Committee made up of national union heads. This more robust administrative setup is expected to provide greater stability and influence when advocating for labor rights and social protection in Central Asia.

The initial council was established in November 2021 following an initiative by Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to foster regional solidarity. The transition into a confederation marks a significant milestone in the evolution of labor cooperation in the region. By consolidating their efforts, these national centers aim to harmonize labor standards and enhance the collective bargaining power of workers on a regional and international scale.