Tajikistan Ratifies the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Tajikistan’s decision to ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) marks a significant step towards a more inclusive society. The decision is the result of years of advocacy by organizations of persons with disabilities, which have played a central role in advancing disability rights in the country.

At the beginning of October, Tajikistan’s Parliament ratified the CRPD. The decision represents an important milestone for disability rights and reinforces the right of persons with disabilities to participate in society on an equal basis with others.

The ratification is widely recognized as a historic achievement. It follows years of dedicated advocacy by organizations of persons with disabilities, which have worked to raise awareness of disability rights, strengthen participation and ensure that the voices of persons with disabilities are heard in public decision-making.

The CRPD is a key international human rights treaty that promotes the rights, dignity and full participation of persons with disabilities. It covers areas such as accessibility, education, employment, healthcare, participation in public life and independent living.

Long-term cooperation with organizations of persons with disabilities

Abilis has supported organizations of persons with disabilities in Tajikistan since 2007. One of its long-standing partners is ISHTIROK, which, together with other organizations of persons with disabilities, has worked persistently to promote the ratification of the CRPD.

Over the years, Abilis has funded 33 projects related to the promotion, signing, ratification and implementation of the Convention. In addition, Abilis has supported 25 projects promoting the human rights of persons with disabilities, with a particular focus on the rights of women, girls and children with disabilities.

Tajikistan signed the CRPD in March 2018, but ratification took more than eight years. Throughout this period, advocacy, awareness-raising and capacity-building efforts led by organizations of persons with disabilities played a crucial role in keeping disability rights on the national agenda.

The ratification demonstrates the impact that long-term advocacy can have in advancing human rights. Above all, it reflects the commitment, leadership and persistence of Tajikistan’s disability movement.

The work continues after ratification

While ratification is a major achievement, it is only the beginning of a new phase. The focus now shifts to implementation: ensuring that the Convention leads to meaningful changes in legislation, services and everyday life. The goal is a society where persons with disabilities can participate fully in education, employment, decision-making and community life.

Particular attention is still needed for those who face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination, including women and girls with disabilities.

Tajikistan’s ratification is a milestone worth celebrating. It is also a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when persons with disabilities and their representative organizations are actively involved in shaping policies and advocating for their rights.

An important step has been taken. The next challenge is to ensure that the principles of the Convention translate into real improvements in the lives of persons with disabilities across Tajikistan.