Dushanbe, December 5, 2024
On December 5, 2024, a conference was held in Dushanbe to summarize the outcomes of the project "Protecting the Social, Economic, and Cultural Rights of Prisoners and Ex-Prisoners in Tajikistan". The event highlighted the work accomplished and discussed future plans to improve the living conditions and integration of this group of citizens.
Key Achievements
Since the project's launch in 2015, significant progress has been made:
3,735 prisoners from the correctional facilities in Nurek and Yavan completed vocational training in fields such as cooking, carpentry, gas welding, sewing, hairdressing, and confectionery.
Over 10 years of operation, social reintegration centers have provided consultations and assistance to more than 6,000 beneficiaries, about 30% of whom were women. Lawyers and social workers helped secure 319 new-format passports.
Participant Feedback
Mr. Voris Gozizoda, Deputy Head of the Main Directorate for the Execution of Criminal Sentences, stated:
"Expanding access to educational and professional programs not only prepares prisoners for life after release but also helps reduce recidivism rates."
Shakhlo Abdunabizoda, Director of the NGO "Jahon," added:
"Organizing consultations on social issues and psychological support for prisoners is a crucial step towards their successful resocialization. We aim to enhance their potential through training in personal development, civic education, and business planning."
Madina Usmanova, legal analyst at the NGO "Bureau for Human Rights," emphasized:
"Our goal is not just to provide legal or social assistance but also to help people regain confidence in their future, integrate into society, and rebuild their lives."
Development and Prospects
The project is closely tied to reforms in Tajikistan's penal system. In 2020, the Strategy for Reforming the Penal System until 2030 was adopted, focusing on:
Developing alternative sentencing methods.
Establishing a probation service.
In 2023, a Working Group was formed to draft the Law of the Republic of Tajikistan on Probation, with the first draft of the law discussed with civil society in November 2024.
Particular attention is being paid to social entrepreneurship as a reintegration tool. Notable success stories include Safargul Saidalieva’s sewing business, and Rahim Yusupov’s repairing car business, both of which have provided sustainable income for their families.
The project is funded by the European Union (60%) and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany (40%) and is implemented with the support of DVV International in collaboration with the NGOs "Bureau for Human Rights and Rule of Law" and "Jahon".
This project contributes to building a more just society by supporting not only prisoners but also civil society and human rights defenders who promote essential human rights.