Gender Equality Context in Tajikistan

With patriarchal norms dominating, gender inequality and the prevalence of gender-based violence remain very high, with Tajikistan ranking 112 out of 146 countries in the 2024 Global Gender Gap Report. The country ranked 126 out of 193 countries in the Human Development Index (HDI) with a score of 0.679 (females’ HDI: 0.670) and a Gender Development Index (GDI) score of 0.919, according to the Human Development Report 2023–2024. Women’s labour force participation stands at 31.8%, compared to 51.3% among men (World Bank, 2024). Some progress has been seen in women’s political participation, with an increase in the number of women parliamentarians in recent years. 

Some progress has been seen in women’s political participation, with 28.6% of seats in the House of Representatives and 30.3% in the National Assembly held by women, reflecting gradual improvements in parliamentary representation.

Making Gender Equality a Reality

At UNDP Tajikistan, making gender equality a reality is at the heart of our mission. We recognise that women’s empowerment and gender equality are essential to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development—a vision of a world where every woman and girl enjoys full equality, and all legal, social, and economic barriers to their empowerment are removed.

UNDP Tajikistan integrates gender equality principles across all areas of its work, including sustainable development, democratic governance, climate action, and disaster resilience. To achieve lasting impact, we work closely with the Government of Tajikistan, civil society, and local communities. We also engage religious and community leaders to address harmful practices, including early and forced marriages.

Our Goal

Our goal is to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment in Tajikistan. By supporting women as leaders and active participants in development processes, we aim to create opportunities for them to shape their own lives and contribute to a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient society.

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