Statement by Displaced International on Strengthening Support for Afghan Refugees in Tajikistan
Displaced International (DI) welcomes and recognizes Tajikistan’s vital role in providing refuge to Afghan refugees during this critical time. As a close neighbor, Tajikistan has demonstrated remarkable solidarity by offering safety and support to those fleeing conflict and instability in Afghanistan. DI acknowledges Tajikistan’s leadership in addressing this humanitarian challenge with compassion and commitment.
Ambassador M. Ashraf Haidari, DI Founder & President, stated: “We extend our deepest gratitude to President Emomali Rahmon and the people of Tajikistan for their unwavering support to Afghan refugees fleeing terrorism, extremism, oppression, and human rights violations. As a former UNHCR field officer in 1991-1995, I had the honor of supporting Tajik refugees who fled civil war, and I recall the generosity Afghans showed them. It is heartening to see this spirit of solidarity now returned by Tajikistan. However, hosting refugees is a shared global responsibility, and we urge the international community to enhance its support for Tajikistan in this endeavor. Together, we can ensure Afghan refugees’ protection, dignity, and future while promoting regional stability.”
As we advocate for increased human security assistance to Afghan refugees in Tajikistan, we emphasize the necessity of a more coordinated and collaborative approach to addressing their most pressing needs. Together with the government of Tajikistan, UNHCR, IOM, and other stakeholders, we have the opportunity to create a mutually beneficial framework that supports both refugees and the host country.
- Access to Education and Skills Development: Afghan refugee children and youth must not be left behind. Ensuring access to quality education and vocational training is essential, as education serves as both a fundamental right and a pathway to empowerment and integration. DI calls for a concerted effort to expand refugee access to education and implement skills development programs that equip them to contribute meaningfully to Tajikistan’s economic and social landscape. With the backing of international partners, we can provide these young people with the tools to secure brighter futures, benefiting both themselves and the communities they integrate into.
- Access to Healthcare: A healthy population is the cornerstone of a productive society. DI stresses the urgent need for a unified approach to guarantee Afghan refugees access to essential healthcare services. We urge all aid actors to collaborate closely with the Tajik Ministry of Health to enhance healthcare provision, particularly in maternal health, childcare, and mental health services. Strengthening health systems and ensuring that refugees receive adequate medical support will foster overall well-being and resilience, contributing positively to Tajikistan’s public health landscape.
- Employment and Economic Inclusion: Economic independence is crucial for the dignity and long-term success of refugees. DI advocates for policies that facilitate Afghan refugees’ participation in Tajikistan’s private sector, enabling them to contribute to the economy while achieving self-sufficiency. By creating opportunities for meaningful employment, we can promote social integration and provide Tajikistan with a valuable, skilled workforce. This collaborative effort will reduce aid dependency, bolster economic growth, and strengthen social cohesion.
- Protection from Arbitrary Arrest, Extortion, and Forcible Deportation: While Tajikistan’s generosity is undeniable, refugees continue to face significant challenges, including arbitrary arrests, extortion, and the grave threat of forcible deportation to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, where they face imminent danger to their lives. DI urges UNHCR, IOM, and other stakeholders to work closely with the Tajik government to reinforce legal protections and put an immediate halt to deportations that violate fundamental human rights. The Tajik government is fully aware of the life-threatening risks these refugees face, and the international community must act swiftly to prevent these unlawful expulsions. Through structured dialogue, shared expertise, and urgent action, we can establish a system that upholds the dignity and rights of refugees while ensuring broader security for all.
- Support to the Tajik Government: To effectively address the needs of Afghan refugees, DI calls on the international community to extend greater support to the Tajik government. Increased financial assistance, technical expertise, and humanitarian aid from international organizations, donor governments, and NGOs are imperative to achieving sustainable solutions in education, healthcare, employment, and protection. Strengthening Tajikistan’s capacity to host refugees will enable us to collectively uphold humanitarian principles while fostering meaningful opportunities for those in need.
A united, multi-stakeholder approach can transform the challenges faced by Afghan refugees into opportunities for growth, integration, and shared prosperity. The government of Tajikistan has demonstrated commendable dedication to this cause, and with the collaboration of international partners, we can expand and enhance these vital efforts.
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