Penology in Tajikistan
Activist Gives Rare Glimpse Of Tajik ...
Tajikistan's penological system faces significant challenges, including overcrowding, limited rehabilitation programs, and concerns about human rights. However, there have been efforts to reform the system and improve conditions for inmates.
🏛️ Institutional Framework
The Ministry of Justice of Tajikistan oversees the prison system, which comprises various correctional facilities. As of January 1, 2024, there were 13,556 convicts and 1,355 suspects, accused, and defendants in correctional institutions. The living space norm for each prisoner is four square meters; however, inspections have revealed breaches of this law, with some facilities housing more inmates than their capacity .
⚠️ Key Challenges
1. Overcrowding and Poor Conditions
Several correctional facilities have been found to exceed their capacity, leading to overcrowded conditions. Additionally, issues such as lack of repairs to buildings and common areas, and a lack of signs informing prisoners of their rights have been reported .
2. Health Concerns
The prison population faces health challenges, with 350 prisoners infected with HIV and more than 100 with tuberculosis. In 2023, 53 prisoners died in custody, with the main causes being cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer .
3. Limited Rehabilitation and Employment Opportunities
Although prisoners have a constitutional right to work, only 1,270 prisoners were engaged in paid labor as of January 1, 2024. The wages earned are at the minimum wage level, with deductions made for accommodation, food, and utilities, negatively impacting their future lives. The limited production base in correctional institutions does not consider the prisoners' specialties when assigning work .
4. Human Rights Concerns
Reports of torture and ill-treatment in detention facilities have raised concerns about the human rights situation in Tajikistan's prisons. The United Nations has called for improved conditions and adherence to international standards .
🔄 Reform Efforts
1. Vocational Training Programs
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), with support from the State of Qatar, has implemented vocational training programs in metalwork and woodwork in Dushanbe and Khujand. These programs aim to enhance prisoners' earning capacity and improve their ability to reintegrate into society upon release .(UNODC, UNODC)
2. Probation as an Alternative Sentencing
The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) has trained state and civil society representatives in Tajikistan on international best practices of probation as an alternative sentencing. This initiative aims to reduce the reliance on incarceration and promote rehabilitation .(OSCE)
3. Penal Reform Strategy
The government of Tajikistan has developed a National Strategy on Penal Reform for 2020-2030, with support from the OSCE and Penal Reform International. The strategy focuses on improving the medical service within the penal system and addressing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic .(OSCE)
✅ Conclusion
While Tajikistan's penological system faces significant challenges, including overcrowding, limited rehabilitation programs, and health concerns, efforts are being made to reform the system. Initiatives such as vocational training programs, probation as an alternative sentencing, and the development of a penal reform strategy indicate a commitment to improving conditions and promoting rehabilitation. Continued support from international organizations and a focus on human rights are essential for the successful implementation of these reforms.
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