As the world marks the International Human Rights Day, Good Neighbors Tajikistan highlights continued efforts to ensure that all children, regardless of nationality, background, or legal status, can learn and grow in safe and supportive environments.

Vahdat, located a few kilometers from Dushanbe, has seen a steady increase in families arriving from Afghanistan in search of protection. By the end of 2024, Tajikistan hosted more than 10,700 registered refugees and asylum seekers, the majority of whom were Afghan nationals. This shift has placed new demands on schools, which now welcome students with diverse languages, learning needs, and life experiences.

Recognizing the importance of inclusive and rights-based education, Good Neighbors Tajikistan, in partnership with UNICEF, is implementing the project “Enhancing the Cooperation of Social, Health and Education Sectors to Address Violence Against Children in Tajikistan.” The initiative supports human rights in practice by strengthening protection systems, improving access to support services, and promoting non-discrimination within schools.

The initiative advances several key human rights principles, including safety, dignity, participation, and equal access to education. It does this by:

• Strengthening cooperation among schools, health services, and social protection institutions to prevent and address violence.

• Training teachers, administrators, social workers, and healthcare providers on child rights, conflict management, and culturally sensitive communication.

• Ensuring that students have confidential and child-friendly ways to report concerns.

• Promoting active participation through student councils, awareness sessions, and peer-support activities.

• Encouraging respect and cooperation between local and refugee students.