Evaluation report: Strengthening the rule of law and human rights protection in Tajikistan, phase II
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has implemented a Finnish-funded rule of law project in Tajikistan between 2018 and 2022. UNDP Tajikistan successfully continued implementation of the project, building on the results of previous cooperation. The evaluation found that the project was relevant and supported Tajikistan's own development goals.
The main objectives of the Rule of Law project were to strengthen the provision of free legal aid, support Tajikistan's accession to international human rights treaties and their implementation, strengthen the capacity of the Ombudsman's Office, and support the organization of regional, state, and citizen dialogues on the rule of law throughout the country. The main beneficiaries were groups in vulnerable situations in remote areas, such as women and persons with disabilities living in rural areas, who often have little awareness of their rights and limited access to legal services. Finland's funding amounted to EUR 1.7 million for the period 2018–2022.
According to the evaluation, the project succeeded in achieving and, in some cases, exceeding its objectives. The project was particularly acknowledged for its work on the rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities and women, and for the dialogue between stakeholders. The evaluation recommended, for example, that the project should strengthen its cooperation with the Supreme Court and expand its cooperation with the Parliament to support legislation.