Press Release
The National Consultations on preparations for the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review have been successfully concluded in Tajikistan
Dushanbe, Tajikistan — August 15, 2025
In Tajikistan, high-level national consultations have concluded as part of the country’s preparations for the fourth cycle of the United Nations Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR). The series of meetings began in May in Bokhtar, continued in June in Khujand, and concluded with the final national consultation in Dushanbe. Representatives of government bodies and civil society took part in the discussions.
The national UPR preparation working group is represented by: Orzuzoda Firuz, Head of the Human Rights Guarantees Department, Executive Office of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan; Bobozoda Umed, Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Tajikistan; Bobokalonova Nasiba Ibrohimovna, Head of the International Relations Department, General Prosecutor’s Office of the Republic of Tajikistan; Shohiyon Navruz, Head of the Child Rights Department, Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Tajikistan.
In his address, Hokimbek Sodikzoda, Head of the Child Rights Protection Department of the Human Rights Guarantees Directorate within the Executive Office of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, noted that human rights issues are among the priorities for Tajikistan. Since gaining independence, the Republic of Tajikistan has paid particular attention to the protection and promotion of human rights. Today’s event, dedicated to preparations for the fourth cycle of the UPR, is one of the most significant in the field of human rights.
Referring to the National Plan, he pointed out that it covers various areas in the protection of human rights, including cooperation with civil society, the development of national legislation, and other important matters. Cooperation with civil society and other development partners has been established at a high level.
“All National Plans developed within the framework of the UN Treaty Bodies and the UPR, as well as national reports, are discussed with civil society and international partners. Their preparation takes into account the proposals and recommendations received. I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for the close cooperation and support in this important work,” he concluded.
Nargis Zokirova, Director of the PO “Bureau of Human Rights and Rule of Law”, noted that since 2010 Tajikistan has participated in the Universal Periodic Review process and has successfully completed three cycles. “The national plans on the implementation of recommendations, developed within the framework of the three UPR cycles, were approved at the highest level — signed by the President of the country, which demonstrates Tajikistan’s firm commitment to the principles of human rights,” Ms Zokirova emphasised.
In her welcoming remarks, Franziska Vögtli, Deputy Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Tajikistan, stated: “Switzerland supports the application of, among others, international standards. The priorities of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Tajikistan include equality and the strengthening of all forms of protection. The development of national action plans following the UPR cycles has helped guide state institutions and civil society actors in their joint efforts to protect rights. Our cooperation with the international community reflects Switzerland’s commitment to supporting reforms, our openness to dialogue, and our conviction.”
Amirbek Saidbekov, Programme Manager at the Delegation of the European Union to Tajikistan, stressed the importance of consultations in preparing national and alternative reports, as civil society organisations represent the voices of beneficiaries. He noted the close cooperation between the EU, the Government, and civil society in Tajikistan on human rights issues.
In her video message, Parvathy Ramaswami, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Tajikistan, observed that the UPR process had stimulated a broader practice of adopting sectoral action plans to implement the recommendations of UN treaty bodies.
“Key national documents, such as the National Human Rights Strategy until 2038, the Law on Equality and the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination, and others, have been developed and adopted as a result of the UPR process. In addition, the ratification of conventions, including the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), was recommended and adopted by the Republic of Tajikistan within the second and third UPR cycles. I strongly urge the Government to ratify the CRPD as soon as possible this year,” she emphasised.
During the event, reports were presented and issues discussed by both state bodies and civil society organisations, addressing various aspects of human rights in the country. Participants raised topics related to the right to an adequate standard of living, including the right to housing, the independence of the judiciary and access to justice, access to information, the situation of vulnerable groups, and other important issues.
These national consultations are jointly organized by the Human Rights Guarantees Department of the Executive Office of the President and the Public Organisation “Bureau of Human Rights and Rule of Law” as part of two key initiatives:
“Facilitating Tajikistan’s Compliance with International Human Rights Obligations: Supporting the State’s and Civil Society’s Preparations for the UPR” – supported by the Government of Switzerland.
“Advancing Fundamental Rights: Strengthening Civil Society, Preventing Torture, and Transforming Prisons for Human Rights in Tajikistan” – funded by the European Union and with the co-funding of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Background information: The third cycle of the Universal Periodic Review for Tajikistan took place on November 4, 2021. Following the review, the country received 234 recommendations from 80 states: 172 were accepted, and 62 were noted.
Preparations for the fourth UPR cycle, scheduled for 2026, are being carried out with active participation from both state institutions and civil society organizations.
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