We all know well that trade unions were established to protect the socio-economic rights and interests of employees. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted on December 10, 1948, also stipulates that everyone has the right to work, to freely choose employment, to just and favorable working conditions, and protection against unemployment, as well as the right to form and join trade unions for the protection of their interests.

This right is enshrined in the constitutions and laws of nearly all democratic countries worldwide. Trade unions, along with relevant state bodies, actively participate in its implementation. The history of trade unions in Uzbekistan dates back to 1905. However, until 1991, that is, until the country gained independence, they operated as part of the All-Union Central Council of Trade Unions. Currently, the Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan consists of 13 sectoral trade unions and 14 regional councils. In recent years, as the Federation’s activities have improved, the role and influence of trade union organizations in society have also increased. November 11 has been declared the Day of Trade Union Workers of Uzbekistan. In his congratulatory message to trade union workers and members on November 11, 2022, the President of Uzbekistan emphasized that the role of trade unions in the socio-political life of the country is steadily strengthening, that this organization is deeply integrating into the lives of the people, easing their burdens, and clearly defining its responsibilities before society.

The primary trade union committee of Samarkand State University also plays a significant role in ensuring the social protection of nearly 2,000 professors, teachers, and staff members, as well as over 16,000 students, safeguarding their rights and interests. The committee operates on the basis of the priority directions set by the Council of the Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan, as well as the collective agreement and contracts signed with the university administration.

The main focus is on protecting the socio-economic rights of union members in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Presidential decrees and resolutions, and Government decisions, improving working and living conditions, enhancing labor organization and payment systems, and ensuring stipends and benefits. Any minor shortcomings in these matters are promptly resolved in cooperation with the university administration, with priority always given to the interests of employees and students.

To organize meaningful leisure time for employees, sports clubs and sections have been established, and regular sports competitions are held among staff and students. The university sports club is equipped with the necessary equipment and facilities. In particular, university faculty and staff participate in competitions in five sports within the framework of the program “Promoting a Healthy Lifestyle and the Development of Physical Culture and Sports.” As a result of this attention, university teams successfully participate and achieve high results in competitions among enterprises, organizations, and higher education institutions, as well as in regional sports events. Naturally, they are duly encouraged and rewarded by the trade unions.

Among university staff and students, there are also individuals with disabilities, large families, low-income groups, and those in need of financial support. The committee primarily provides them with social and material assistance, helping improve their living conditions and restore their health. In cooperation with the University Council of Veterans, regular attention is also given to retired employees.

Employees who have worked long years also deserve proper rest. Therefore, organizing cultural and educational events, tours across the country, and providing vouchers to trade union sanatoriums have become one of the important areas of our work. Throughout the year, vouchers are provided for university faculty, staff, and their family members to sanatoriums such as Zomin, Turon, Chinobod, Bostan, Botanika, Chimgan, Oqtosh, Chortoq, Abu Ali Ibn Sino, and others. Retired veterans are not left without attention either: they are offered free vouchers by the university and the primary trade union committee.

During the summer holidays, vouchers to children’s health camps are allocated at the expense of the primary trade union committee for the children of university professors and staff.

Today, among the many structures and councils at Samarkand State University, which has a rich history and high academic potential, the role of the primary trade union committee is becoming increasingly significant. Professors, staff, and students clearly see and feel in their own lives how important the role of trade unions is in society.

Shavkat MAHMATMURADOV,

Chairman of the Primary Trade Union Committee

of Samarkand State University