Tajikistan Orders 20-Minute Workday Exercise Breaks for All Employees

Tajikistan has introduced a mandatory 20-minute exercise break for all employees during the workday. The new rule is part of recent amendments to the country’s Healthcare Code. It aims to improve public health and tackle rising rates of obesity and diabetes. President Emomali Rahmon signed the amendments on 17 June 2021. The requirement applies to every organisation in Tajikistan, no matter who owns it. Employers must create conditions for workouts and join in the physical activity themselves.

The exercise break does not replace existing meal or coffee breaks. Mandatory group workouts were already in place in some workplaces, with voluntary participation. In 2018, civil servants and state employees began mandatory Saturday morning workouts. The new law also includes measures for diabetes prevention and treatment. It builds on past efforts to promote physical activity among workers. All businesses must now ensure their staff take part in the daily exercise session.