Remarks by Dr Pratibha Mehta,

UNDP Resident Representative in Tajikistan

Conference on

“Status of Gerontological Services and Problems of People with Disabilities in Tajikistan”

Date: October 27, 2021,

Venue: Hyatt Regency

Time: 09:00 am

Dear Mr. Gafur Muhsinzoda, First Deputy Minister of the Health and Social Protection of Population of the Republic of Tajikistan,

Representatives of Government Bodies and Civil Society Organizations,

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

·        It is a great honour for me to join all of you today at the Conference on “Status of Gerontological Services and Problems of People with Disabilities in Tajikistan”.

·        According to the OHCHR report, by 2050, for the first time in the history of humanity, there will be more people over 60 years of age globally than there are children. All over the world, older populations are increasing dramatically and rapidly. In Tajikistan around 330 thousand people are over the 64 years old and according to surveys, they represent one of the most vulnerable and socially excluded groups in Tajik society, especially single elderly persons.

·        Moreover, 15 per cent of the world’s population, or more than 1 billion people, are living with disability. The rate of people with disabilities is increasing due to ageing population and chronic health conditions. In Tajikistan, there are around 150 thousand people with disabilities are officially registered, 1,6% out of which are children. Many of them do not still have access to basic services.

·        Undoubtedly, Older people and people living with disabilities have the same rights as anyone else. Their inclusion in national policies and programmes, as well as their integration in the society, is essential so they are able to fully enjoy their rights and benefit from all the available opportunities. In 2015, with the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the United Nations’ Member States pledged to ensure that No One is Left Behind in development and to ensuring to reaching those who are the most in need.  Leaving No One Behind as an approach is rooted in Inclusion of all People.  

·        The Constitution of the Republic of Tajikistan guarantees everyone social security in old age, in cases of illness, disability, disability, loss of a breadwinner and in other cases determined by law. At the state level, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of is currently dealing with the issues of the elderly in terms of pension provision. However, more efforts are needed to be taken for ensuring full participation of Older people in public life, adopt measures to improve their social safety and welfare, ensuring the quality of life at any age and maintaining their independence.

·        During the last years, significant steps have also been taken by the Government to promote the rights of people with disabilities. On 2018 Tajikistan became a member of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities - the most important human rights instrument related to the rights of persons with disabilities. In February 2020 the National Plan as a "Road map" for the ratification of the Convention was adopted (with support of development partners including UNDP), which serves as is a fundamental document designed to ensure the creation of the necessary conditions and mechanisms for the implementation of the provisions of the CRPD in Tajikistan.

·        UNDP has also been undertaking substantive work to improve the accessible environment for people with disabilities including for Older people through provision of support to the Government on elaboration and adoption of the State Programme “Accessible environment for 2021-2025” in February 2021 which is aimed at supporting people with disabilities and Older people through implementation of numerous measures in the next five years to improve the opportunities and standard of living of these groups of population.

·        This facts underlines Tajikistan`s commitment being a part of the most advanced and human centered states around the globe. UNDP stands ready to further cooperate with the Government and all the partners in the process of implementation of the abovementioned key policy documents.

·        However, despite all the efforts made and the positive results achieved, the last 2 years presented serious challenges for these vulnerable groups.

·        As you know, 2020 has started with announcement of COVID-19 pandemic by WHO, that has negatively affected all the countries around the globe, especially the most vulnerable groups of population.

·        The Assessment conducted by UNDP on COVID-19 Impact on Lives, Livelihoods and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Tajikistan revealed and evidenced overwhelming effect of the COVID-19 on lives and livelihoods, especially people with disabilities and Older people making them even more vulnerable. The isolation, disconnect, disrupted routines and diminished services have greatly impacted the lives and mental well-being of them. Multi-stakeholder actions need to be taken to ensure that these vulnerable groups can always access the health-care and social services, water and sanitation services and public health information they require.

·        While social and economic impact of the COVID-19 is clear, the issue of upholding rule of law and human rights remains important especially during such crisis situations. Access to justice of the most vulnerable groups of population, including Older people and people with disabilities, might be limited and needs even more close attention. All these challenges require finding new solutions to the problems that have arisen and keeping us up with the times.

·        In conclusion, I would like to note that UNDP is committed to working with all partners to promote inclusive, equitable and sustainable development of Tajikistan and promote better life for Older People and people with disabilities in Tajikistan. We are extensively working to bring this agenda as high as it is possible and remain committed in continued and meaningful cooperation with all stakeholders. We hope that our contribution will help to ensure that Old Persons as well as  persons with disabilities are given equal access and voice in society, so that they can realize their fullest possible potential.

Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to a productive discussion today!