Round Table Reviews Progress on National Human Rights Action Plan and Outlines Next Steps

UN Human Rights Central Asia, in cooperation with the Human Rights Guarantees Department of the Executive Office of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, the Public Foundation Notabene, and International Partnership for Human Rights (IPHR), and with financial support from the European Union, convened a round table to review progress in the implementation of the First Action Plan (2023–2025) under the National Human Rights Strategy of the Republic of Tajikistan until 2038 and to discuss the development of a new action plan.

“Over nearly three years since the adoption of the Action Plan, significant work has been carried out. At the same time, there are areas that require more serious attention. Consultations with civil society are important both for an objective assessment of progress achieved and for the preparation of the new Action Plan”, noted Sodikzoda Khokimbek, Head of Section at the Human Rights Guarantees Department of the Executive Office of the President of Tajikistan. 

The round table brought together more than 80 representatives of state authorities, civil society, and international organizations, providing a platform for dialogue, stocktaking, and forward-looking recommendations.

“The implementation of the National Strategy is not possible without the systematic participation of civil society, which provides independent expertise, monitoring, and a link to the real needs of people. Such cooperation already exists—sometimes more active, sometimes more formal—and we hope to continue being part of this important process”, emphasized Nigina Bahrieva, representative of the Public Foundation Notabene.

Participants shared information on the work accomplished and developed recommendations for the new plan.

“Experience shows that action plans produce results when there is regular coordination between the State, civil society, Parliament, and development partners. We need to ensure a more active role of Parliament in implementing human rights obligations in the future”, stated Suhrob Shoev, OHCHR National Programme Coordinator.

Participants agreed to continue work on the development of the new Action Plan in the coming weeks and, if necessary, to convene additional consultations with civil society.