The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Central Asia is organizing a two-day conference on “Combating Online Fraud and Cybercrime Associated with International Recruitment.”

The event brings together high-ranking officials from Central Asian ministries, including the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Labour and Migration, as well as representatives from the British Embassy in Bishkek and IOM. Participants aim to strengthen collaboration in addressing the growing challenges of online fraud and cybercrime linked to international recruitment.

Government representatives are presenting cases of fraud and cybercrime in their respective countries and sharing measures taken to combat these issues. The conference is held under the framework of the “Safe Migration of Seasonal Workers from Central Asia to the UK” project.

As part of the discussions, Mr. Parviz Maksatullozoda, Deputy Head of the Population Migration Department at the Ministry of Labour, Migration, and Employment of Population, delivered a comprehensive presentation on types of online fraud in Tajikistan and the ministry’s efforts to prevent such fraud. IOM Tajikistan, together with representatives of the Tajik government, is actively engaging in discussions, contributing valuable insights and expertise.

Victor Lutenco, IOM Tajikistan Chief of Mission, stated:
"Preventing fraud in international labour migration recruitment is a critical issue for Tajikistan. Here in Bishkek, we are exchanging best practices and lessons learned with colleagues from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, while also exploring advanced techniques in investigating and prosecuting online fraud in labour migration. I hope this event will strengthen efforts across Central Asia, making it safer for migrants to seek work abroad.”

This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of Central Asian governments and IOM to safeguarding migrant workers and ensuring safe, ethical, and transparent international recruitment practices.

For more information, please contact: Nilufar Shekhova, nshekhova@iom.int