Goal 3: Promote gender equality and empowerment of women
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In general, it can be concluded that the inadequate representation of women in leadership positions in the legislative and executive branches of government is a true obstacle to the growing influence of women in the political and administrative decision-making. The formal equality of men and women does not promote democracy and further social development; a small number of women in government at decision-making levels reduces their role in carrying out reforms in the country. The persistent social stereotypes and prejudices, which do not contribute at all to the political advancement of women, as well as the lack of protection of women’s legitimate rights and interests jeopardize the achievement of true gender equality. Introduction of quotas for women is one of the options as a temporary measure to ensure their wider participation in the executive and representative authorities in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. Another option is cooperation with international organizations on how to achieve equal opportunities for men and women, enhancing the role of women in society, and studying the experience of developed countries on political advancement of women. In order to improve the situation, an ad hoc educational programme on the political equality of women and teaching women leadership skills is required, which should be implemented at all levels, starting from secondary schools. Developing and strengthening the women’s movement must be also an integral part of the policy of gender equality. The Government recognizes the importance of a strong civil society in the country and in principle supports NGOs and community-based organizations.
Target 5: Create conditions for women to lead decent life without violence,and the eradication of all forms of violence in all social spheres, and in family. In 2008, the United Nations Secretary-General introduced a system of United Nations actions for 2008–2015 to eliminate violence against women. Under this system, a global campaign “Unite to End Violence against Women” began, which identified the following main objectives: to adopt and enforce the laws combating all forms of violence against women and girls, and punish such violence; adopt and implement a multilateral government action plan; improve the collection of information on the prevalence of violence against women and girls; raise awareness and public participation; and struggle against sexual violence during armed conflicts. Prevention of violence against women has been identified as one of the tasks of the State Programme for Equal Rights and Opportunities for 2001–2010, and of NDS and PRS for 2007–2009. In 2007, the Government of Tajikistan established an Interagency Coordinating Council for the Prevention of Violence against Women, which consists of representatives from the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Committee on Women and Family Affairs under the Government of the Tajikistan, court officials and the General Prosecutor, and representatives of NGOs. Tajikistan joined the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, undertaking to ensure equal rights for men and women, including the right to live free from violence. The Lower House of Parliament of the Republic Tajikistan has a Committee for Family Affairs, Health Care, Social Protection and the Environment, which is engaged in drafting legislation and participates in formulating national gender policy. At provincial, municipal, district representative bodies of local authorities, there are structures dealing with family affairs. Ministries and departments dealing with the social services (health, labour and social security, etc.) have units dealing directly with issues related to women, family and children. With the assistance of the National Commission for Women and Family Affairs, the activities to prevent vio-