THE IMPACT OF LABOR MIGRATION ON THE QUALITY OF WORKING LIFE OF THE RURAL POPULATION OF THE SOUTHERN REGIONS OF THE KYRGYZ REPUBLIC

Abstract

This article identifies the specifics and contradictions of the impact of external labor migration on the quality of working life (QWL) of rural residents in Kyrgyzstan's southern regions. It also identifies the main factors reducing QWL and proposes regional policy approaches to mitigate them. The study found that migration, while increasing material well-being, leads to labor shortages, increased labor intensity, and the persistence of poor working conditions. The phenomenon of "feminization" of agriculture is also identified, meaning women perform the bulk of the labor but lack control over key resources (land, equipment, and finances).Women's unpaid domestic labor, estimated at 10-20% of regional output, acts as a hidden subsidy to the economy but is not included in official statistics and does not contribute to pension entitlements.