A significant event took place in the capital of Tajikistan, where key issues concerning human rights protection were discussed. The dialogue between government structures and civil society was aimed at strengthening cooperation and developing joint solutions to advance human rights in the country. The event brought together representatives of key government bodies, civil society organisations, international experts, and partners, including United Nations and European Union. 

The event marked an important step towards enhancing collaboration between civil society and the state. Among the participants were representatives from the Executive Office of the President of Tajikistan, the Ministry of Justice, the Ombudsman’s Office, lawyers, human rights defenders, and international experts, such as members of the UN Committee Against Torture and the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture. Special attention was given to issues concerning the prevention of torture and ill-treatment in places of detention. According to international organisations, despite certain progress, the problem of torture remains relevant in Tajikistan. In 2023, several cases of ill-treatment in detention facilities were recorded, underscoring the need for more decisive measures in this area. 

The Ambassador of the European Union to Tajikistan, Raimundas Karoblis, speaking at the event, emphasised the importance of cooperation between the state and civil society on human rights issues: “Safeguarding human rights requires unity and collaboration. A society free from violations, where the rule of law is respected, is possible only when the state and civil society work together. This partnership is essential, not only for the protection of human rights but also for sustainable development and economic growth.” 

The discussion during the dialogue covered a broad range of issues, including the role of civil society in protecting the rights of detainees, as well as alternative measures aimed at reducing the reliance on imprisonment as a form of punishment. Experts noted that recent years have seen growing interest in prison reform. In particular, the “Path to Justice” project, funded by the European Union, will contribute to the training of over 200 lawyers and human rights defenders in methods to prevent torture and human rights violations in detention facilities. 

Addressing the protection of vulnerable groups such as women, children, and people with disabilities, Gulchehra Kholmatova, director of the public organisation “The World of Law,” emphasised: “The situation concerning the protection of the rights of vulnerable groups requires special attention. Our dialogue has provided an important opportunity for exchanging opinions and experiences. It is crucial that the results of today's discussion are not left on paper but are implemented in the practical activities of state institutions.” 

One of the key topics discussed was the need to improve the functioning of state bodies in adhering to international human rights standards. A representative of the Ombudsman’s Office of Tajikistan highlighted that dialogue with civil society plays an important role in shaping a more transparent and accountable human rights mechanism. The outcomes of the dialogue are expected to be submitted to government bodies for further analysis and implementation at the policy level. 

In closing the event, Gulchehra Kholmatova added: “This dialogue should not be a one-time event. We intend to organise such meetings annually to ensure ongoing monitoring of the human rights situation and the provision of recommendations for improvement. Today’s meeting is just the beginning of a long journey towards a more just and humane human rights protection system.” 

The event was organised by the public organisation “The World of Law” in cooperation with the Dutch foundation “Perspectivity Challenge,” within the framework of the projects "Path to Justice: Strengthening Human Rights through the Prevention of Torture and Prison System Reform” funded by the European Union, and “Promoting Human Rights and Accountability in Tajikistan’s Places of Detention with a Gender Perspective: Research, Dialogue, and Advocacy” funded by the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI). Collaboration was also carried out with the Executive Office of the President of Tajikistan, the Ombudsman of Tajikistan, and the Regional Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights for Central Asia. 

The dialogue was timed to coincide with the 30^th anniversary of the Constitution of the Republic of Tajikistan and aimed at strengthening the protection of human rights in the country. The conclusions and recommendations developed during the event are expected to make a significant contribution to improving the human rights situation in Tajikistan and to support the further implementation of international standards in the national human rights system.

For further information, please contact Anel Tleukesh, Communications manager, at [email protected]