LocationsUNDP supports Tajikistan in addressing the gap in female advocates by introducing a new internship program. This initiative is part of the Union of Advocates' Internship Program for Young Female Lawyers, organized under the UNDP in Tajikistan’s Supporting Women’s Legal Education Project.
From aspiration to action: Tajik women forge new paths in advocacy with UNDP and Union of Advocates
October 16, 2024
Sadriddin Saidov, Head of the Union of Advocates in Sughd province and one of the lead trainers, working with the participants during the training session for young female lawyers as part of UNDP Tajikistan's Supporting Women’s Legal Education Project
UNDP Tajikistan/ Nigora Fazliddin
At the UNDP-supported training in Sarob, nestled in the serene Varzob Gorge, Northern Tajikistan, 1-year-old Abdullah stands out as the youngest attendee - here to support his mother, Shukrona Odinaahmadzoda, 24, a young lawyer eager to advance her expertise in civil law. Shukrona is not alone in her journey: her family is her biggest support shoulder. Alongside Abdullah, her mother-in-law has also accompanied her, ensuring that while Shukrona engages in dynamic group discussions, her baby boy is well cared for.
Shukrona Odinaahmadzoda, her son Abdullah, and mother-in-law Nuriya Nuralieva in Sarob, Varzob Gorge, during a training session for young female lawyers as part of UNDP Tajikistan's Supporting Women’s Legal Education Project
UNDP Tajikistan/ Nigora Fazliddin
“I am a history and law teacher at Dushanbe High School No. 67,” Shukrona shares. “It was my husband, himself a passionate advocate of education, who encouraged me to take part in this training. The experience has been transformative learning from some of the most respected legal advocates in the country. From mastering case filing to confidently defending clients, the knowledge I’ve gained here will be invaluable.”
Shukrona Odinaahmadzoda during a training session for young female lawyers
UNDP Tajikistan/ Nigora Fazliddin
With her maternity leave nearing its end, Shukrona is eager to return to the classroom with fresh perspectives and skills. Her students are waiting for her return, and she is determined to inspire them with new insights and a renewed passion for the law.
Nuriya Nuralieva, Shukrona’s mother-in-law is taking care of her grandson Abdullah while Shukrona is actively participating in the training
UNDP Tajikistan/ Nigora Fazliddin
Her mother-in-law, Nuriya Nuralieva, beams with pride as she reflects on her daughter-in-law’s dedication. “An educated mother doesn’t just raise her children well - she shapes the future of a generation. Shukrona is not only investing in her family’s future but also the hundreds of students she teaches,” Nuriya says with conviction. “In our family, we believe that women’s empowerment is key to societal progress. Educated women raise clever children.”
Shukrona’s story is not unique to this training. Many participants have arrived with the unwavering support of their families. Another example is Sadbarg Hamidzoda, 25, who has brought along her mother, Gulnora Muhiddinova, reflecting the strong tradition of family unity in these women’s educational pursuits.
Sadbarg Hamidzoda during a training session for young female lawyers
UNDP Tajikistan/ Nigora Fazliddin
Sadbarg Hamidzoda, a graduate of the Russian-Tajik Slavic University, candidly reflects on the challenges she faced at university times. Marriage during her university years left gaps in her academic journey. In an environment marred by domestic violence, she found herself unable to attend classes regularly. This training and internship, she believes, are essential steps in rebuilding her career as an advocate.
“This experience is helping me bridge the gaps in my education and reclaim my professional path,” Sadbarg shares. “It’s been a transformative opportunity, especially as I work to regain my footing after divorce. As a survivor of domestic violence, I want to use my own experiences, along with the knowledge I’ve gained through this program, to specialize in civil and family law.”
Sadbarg’s mother, Gulnora Muhiddinova accompanies her daughter
UNDP Tajikistan/ Nigora Fazliddin
Sadbarg’s mother, Gulnora Muhiddinova, is a steadfast supporter of her daughter’s journey. She passionately urges other mothers to encourage their daughters to prioritize their careers and ambitions over societal pressure for early marriage.
“No rush into marriage - building a career is crucial for the future of young women,” Gulnora emphasizes. “Alongside her father, we were overjoyed when we found this incredible opportunity for Sadbarg. Sadly, her marriage, which didn’t last, caused her to set her career aside. But we remain hopeful for a future where every young woman receives the support she needs from her family and in-laws to pursue her dreams.”
Zarina Qurbonova, another participant in the session for young female lawyers
UNDP Tajikistan/ Nigora Fazliddin
Zarina Qurbonova traveled from Bokhtar to Sarob, determined to carve a path for herself in the legal world. At 25, and a graduate of Bokhtar State University under Nosir Khusrav, Zarina stands out as one of the most engaged participants in the training. Her eyes gleam with determination as she eagerly absorbs every piece of knowledge, all in pursuit of her ambitious goal: becoming a women’s rights advocate in her hometown.
“Only a woman can truly understand another woman,” Zarina asserts. “I want to be not just an advocate, but a reliable support for the countless women who suffer from domestic violence, many of whom mistakenly believe it is a normal part of family life. I am determined to help these women.”
Zarina Qurbonova and her peers are actively discussing a case study during the training
UNDP Tajikistan/ Nigora Fazliddin
Upon completing the internship, Zarina plans to seek employment within the Mayor’s Office in Bokhtar or in another government institution, where she hopes to make a meaningful impact.
The four professional trainers guiding these young advocates are not just instructors—they are vital bridges to their future careers, helping them establish themselves sustainably in Tajikistan’s legal landscape.
After the internship program, 25 young women, including Zarina, will sit for an exam to qualify as advocates under the Ministry of Justice of Tajikistan. Passing this exam will not only validate their hard work but will also grant them automatic membership in the Union of Advocates of Tajikistan, officially empowering them to serve their communities.
“It’s been more than a month and a half since we began working with these young, aspiring advocates, and the transformation has been remarkable. I’ve witnessed their self-confidence soar, and their enthusiasm for the future is undeniable,” says Sadriddin Saidov, head of the Union of Advocates in Sughd province and one of the lead trainers.
Sadriddin Saidov, Head of the Union of Advocates in Sughd province and one of the lead trainers, working with the participants during the training
UNDP Tajikistan/ Nigora Fazliddin
Sadriddin is confident that the internship will yield positive outcomes. “The women are incredibly motivated and optimistic about what lies ahead. I do not doubt that they will carry the skills they’ve learned here into impactful legal careers.”
This internship is part of the Union of Advocates' Internship Program for Young Female Lawyers, organized under the UNDP in Tajikistan’s Supporting Women’s Legal Education Project. The program equips participants with essential writing skills and covers critical topics, including the Law of Tajikistan "On the Prevention of Violence in the Family."
A special session with a neurologist focused on the profound impact of trauma on victims, highlighting the necessity of understanding the mental and physical effects of violence to provide effective legal representation.
These comprehensive trainings have strengthened the resilience of Shukrona, Sadbarg, and Zarina, and their peers, empowering them to become powerful agents of positive change in their communities. By taking on seemingly small cases, they are prepared to make a big difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Throughout the program, the interns worked in small groups, drafting key legal documents such as divorce petitions, alimony requests, and complaints addressing the inaction of law enforcement bodies. They presented their work to peers and mentors, refining their arguments and strategies through feedback and collaboration.
UNDP remains committed to supporting the Union of Advocates in this vital initiative, ensuring that this cohort of young female lawyers continues to receive the training and mentorship they need to thrive in the legal landscape of Tajikistan.
For media inquiries, please contact Nigora Fazliddin, UNDP Tajikistan Communication Analyst: Nigorai.fazliddin@undp.org
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