SURVEY ON ACCESS TO JUSTICE in TAJIKISTAN
SURVEY ON ACCESS TO JUSTICE in TAJIKISTAN
June 3, 2021
There is a large need for justice in Tajikistan that is predominantly unfulfilled. A survey conducted by UNDP, consisting of a questionnaire administered to 1928 persons and of discussions with members of vulnerable groups, shows that 710,000 persons aged 18 and over have a legal dispute in Tajikistan each year. These disputes, which occur disproportionately among residents of Dushanbe and those that are economically deprived, have a significant impact, causing health issues for over half of the disputants, as well as financial costs, physical violence and even death. Unfortunately, the overwhelming majority of disputes go unresolved, as the overwhelming majority of disputants refuse to turn to justice sector institutions to resolve them. This is particularly true for members of vulnerable groups, which face added barriers in accessing justice, such as widespread discrimination and a dismissive attitude from justice sector officials. To address this situation, Tajik authorities should continue with their efforts to make legal aid and the justice system more accessible.