More than a million Tajik citizens live and work outside of their home country for most of the year. Due to insufficient knowledge of host countries’ languages, laws, and their own rights, migrant workers from Tajikistan are often vulnerable to human trafficking, including sexual exploitation.
USAID addresses issues of trafficking-in-persons and labor migration through social, educational, and financial support to former migrant workers, particularly those who are no longer allowed to return to the Russian Federation. USAID programs help them reintegrate into their communities and gain the skills needed to obtain employment or start a business.
We also partner with local groups to foster accountable and inclusive local governance that is responsive to the needs of the country’s citizens. Alongside these efforts, USAID’s media programs are developing a more balanced information environment to increase openness for differing opinions among youth and adults that will lead to increased civic engagement.
RESULTS:
USAID built the capacity of civil society organizations to advocate for a more conducive civil society legal environment and comply with existing laws to maintain their registration status.
USAID provided guidance and legal consultations to approximately 62,500 people via the migration hotline.
USAID assisted 290 victims of trafficking, vulnerable migrant laborers, and other victims of human rights abuses with the Emergency Fund.
USAID provided 100 migrant laborers with training and assistance to launch small businesses.
USAID registered 155 local neighborhood associations to advocate for citizens within local decision-making processes.
