IDA welcomes Tajikistan’s decision to ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

The International Disability Alliance warmly welcomes the decision by Tajikistan’s Parliament to ratify the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This is a major milestone for persons with disabilities in Tajikistan and an important step towards ensuring equality, dignity and full participation in every aspect of society.

IDA congratulates the Government and Parliament of Tajikistan and celebrates the sustained advocacy of persons with disabilities through their representative organisations. In particular, IDA recognises the National Union of Persons with Disabilities of Tajikistan and the wider disability movement, whose determination has helped to advance this long-awaited decision.

Tajikistan signed the Convention on 22 March 2018. Following Parliament’s approval, we look forward to the deposit of its instrument of ratification with the United Nations Secretary-General, and the entry into force 30 days after that date.

Parliament’s decision creates renewed momentum to advance the rights of persons with disabilities through national legislation, public policies and everyday practice. The next chapter must translate this commitment into meaningful improvements in people’s lives: accessible schools, workplaces, health services, transport and information; protection from discrimination and violence; and the support people need to make their own decisions and live independently in their communities.

Persons with disabilities and their representative organisations must be at the centre of this work. Articles 4(3) and 33(3) of the CRPD require their active involvement in implementation and monitoring. Their knowledge, experience and leadership are essential to identifying barriers, shaping effective solutions and holding institutions accountable for progress. IDA encourages an inclusive national implementation process with clear responsibilities, adequate resources and measurable objectives.

As the world marks the twentieth anniversary of the CRPD’s adoption in 2026, Tajikistan’s decision offers a welcome opportunity to renew the Convention’s promise of equal rights and inclusion. IDA calls on international partners to support the implementation in close partnership with Tajikistan’s organisations of persons with disabilities.

IDA stands in solidarity and congratulations with Tajikistan’s disability movement and celebrates this important achievement on the path towards a society and a world where every person can exercise their rights, make their own choices and truly belong.  

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