Tajikistan Passes New Disability Rights Law

Why this is here: The new law mandates that the state take measures to identify and investigate instances of discrimination, exploitation, violence, and humiliation against people with disabilities—acknowledging publicly stated problems.

Tajikistan’s parliament adopted the Law “On Ensuring the Rights and Social Protection of Persons with Disabilities” on May 6. The new law aims to align the country’s legislation with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, ratified in 2020. Deputy Minister of Health Habibullo Muhiddin presented the bill, noting that roughly 60 to 65 percent of its provisions are new.

The law prohibits discrimination based on disability and requires the state to address exploitation and violence against people with disabilities. It guarantees equal rights to education, employment, and participation in political and public life. The legislation also ensures continued access to free public transportation and discounted housing and communal services for those with disabilities.

However, practical implementation of accessibility measures—like ramps and sidewalks—has historically been a challenge in cities like Dushanbe. While the law details provisions for sign language, Braille, and assistive devices, the extent to which these resources will be available remains to be seen. The law will take effect after official publication, and work to fully realize its provisions continues.