On September 11, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed proposals on the effective organization of the population and agricultural census.

Defining the country’s development prospects requires accurate knowledge of the demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the population, the standard of living and well-being of citizens, as well as the state of the agricultural sector. That is why the census is of key importance.

The last general census in Uzbekistan was conducted in 1989. In recent years, several steps have been taken in this direction. In particular, the Law “On the Population Census” was adopted, according to which the population must be counted at least once every 10 years, and agriculture once every 5 years.

In 2021, a trial population census was carried out, and in 2022, a trial agricultural census. However, organizing a full-scale census requires time to study international experiences and develop the necessary measures, which is why its implementation was postponed.

At the presentation, a proposal was considered to conduct a unified population and agricultural census, prepared in line with international practice, with the participation of the World Bank, UNFPA, and FAO.

According to the plan, the census in Uzbekistan will be held from January 15 to February 28, 2026. During the first 17 days, data collection will be carried out online via the internet, and during the following month, through door-to-door visits with the participation of representatives of the “mahalla of seven”.

The new format will significantly reduce expenses, saving 1.3 trillion UZS. The process will become simpler and more transparent, with the number of questions reduced from the initially planned 328 to 71.

As a result of the census, a unified database will be created on the composition of Uzbekistan’s 38-million population, migration, marital status, types of employment, and sources of income, in accordance with the recommendations of the 2020 Conference of European Statisticians.

Data on the use of agricultural land, as well as the number of livestock and poultry, will be clarified. This will enable the assessment of the effectiveness of the 25.6 trillion UZS allocated annually to the sector, including 2.2 trillion in budget funds, as well as the volume of services provided, thereby ensuring food security.

For the qualitative conduct of the census, representatives of the “mahalla of seven” will undergo training under a special program and will be financially incentivized. Funds for this will be allocated from the project to strengthen the statistical system, which is being implemented with the support of the World Bank.

Additionally, a large-scale information campaign will be conducted through mass media and social networks, featuring special programs and videos to raise public awareness.

Overall, the census will enable the determination of actual indicators in the demographic and agricultural spheres, which is crucial for the targeted and effective implementation of state programs.

The Head of State approved the submitted proposals and instructed responsible officials to ensure the systematic and high-quality conduct of the population and agricultural census.

UzA