Making Societies More Resilient to Crime: UNODC and the Government of Tajikistan Launch New Rehabilitation Programmes in Prisons

Dushanbe, 4 April 2018 - The Government of Tajikistan and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) signed a Joint Action Plan for the establishment of new rehabilitation programmes in prisons. Within the framework of UNODC's Global Programme on the Implementation of the Doha Declaration, two prison-based production sites are foreseen -  a metal fabrication workshop in Dushanbe and a woodwork and furniture manufacturing workshop in Khujand.

"Prisoners continue to be part of our society and must be treated with respect. Proper treatment and providing good conditions in prisons will contribute to successful reintegration of prisoners into society" marked Mr. Sharif Izatullo, the Deputy Minister of Justice - Head of the Tajik Prison Service.

As part of the Joint Action Plan, refurbishment of the production facilities and procurement of new equipment is envisaged. The rehabilitation programme will steadily employ 12 prisoners in metal fabrication and 30 in woodwork production.  Moreover, 180 prisoners are expected to complete vocational training and receive a recognized diploma in these professions on an annual basis.

  "International law stipulates that imprisonment should not be limited to the deprivation of liberty alone" noted Ms. Ashita Mittal, UNODC Regional Representative for Central Asia. "Our cooperation with the Government of Tajikistan on this issue is of immense value, as the planned production facilities will allow prisoners to obtain knowledge and skills that can assist them when they are released and avoid future offending.

The Doha Declaration, adopted in April 2015 at the conclusion of the 13th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, highlights the importance of supporting measures to support the rehabilitation and social reintegration of prisoners into the community. The Global Programme on the Implementation of the Doha Declaration is funded by the Government of Qatar.