Rights Watchdog Urges EU States and Turkey: Do Not Return Tajik Dissidents
Human Rights Watch Urges EU countries and Turkey to Protect Tajik Dissidents
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has issued a plea to several European Union countries and Turkey to prevent the extradition of Tajik dissidents who have sought shelter in their territories back to Tajikistan.
The call comes as concerns grow over the safety and wellbeing of Tajik activists and opposition figures who have fled their home country due to political persecution. HRW has highlighted that these individuals face the risk of torture, unfair trials, and other human rights violations if they are forced to return to Tajikistan.
According to HRW, Tajik authorities have a history of targeting critics and political opponents, using tactics such as arbitrary detention, torture, and enforced disappearances. The organization is therefore calling on countries hosting Tajik dissidents to uphold their obligations under international law and protect these individuals from potential harm.
HRW’s plea follows reports of several Tajik dissidents being detained or forcibly returned to Tajikistan in recent months, raising alarm among human rights organizations and advocates. The organization is urging EU countries and Turkey to ensure that Tajik dissidents are granted asylum or other protective status, allowing them to live in safety and security away from the reach of Tajik authorities.
As the situation of Tajik dissidents remains precarious, HRW is calling for urgent action to prevent their extradition and provide them with the necessary assistance and protection. The organization is urging the international community to stand in solidarity with these individuals and uphold their fundamental human rights.
