DUSHANBE, 29.11.2019 (NIAT Khovar) – The International Action “16 Days Against Violence” which started on November 25 will last until December 10, the International Human Rights Day.

In this regard, the Sughd delegation consisting of staff of the Department for Women and Family Affairs of Khujand, and heads of public organizations visited Bokhtar on November 27.

The delegation was received by the head of the Department for Women and Family Affairs of Khatlon Region Rano Rahimzoda.

A forum was held as part of their visit, which focused on issues relating to the measures taken by the government of Tajikistan to fight against domestic violence, the importance of preventive measures and the protection of people affected by this problem.

“In order to prevent domestic violence in Tajikistan, the Law ‘On the Prevention of Domestic Violence’ and the action plan of the ‘State Program on the Prevention of Domestic Violence in Tajikistan for 2014-2023’ are being implemented,” said Rahimzoda.

“The relevant authorities of Khatlon are preparing young people for an independent family life, as well as work to prevent the breakup of families and strengthen them, raising children in the spirit of patriotism. Great preventive work is also being carried out to prevent the involvement of women and girls in various extremist groups. Awareness of domestic violence has improved in a number of cities and districts of Khatlon. Women feel protected by the state and law. However, we will continue to work in this direction. Thanks to close cooperation with various government bodies, we can take effective measures to prevent domestic violence and ensure gender equality in society,” noted Rahimzoda.

According to the decree of the Khatlon Chairman Kurbon Hakimzoda, a Coordinating Council was established to implement the “State Program for the Prevention of Domestic Violence in Tajikistan for 2014-2023.”

The council consists of representatives of regional departments of the court, the Prosecutor’s Office, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Education and Science, Health and Social Protection of the Population, Culture, Committees for Youth Affairs and Sports, Television and Radio Broadcasting, Religious Affairs and Regulation of Tradition, Celebrations and Ceremonies, the Agency for Labor and Social Protection of the Population, the Department for the Rights of the Child, Khatlon newspapers and relevant civil society organizations. The council holds about four meetings annually.

Interagency councils for the prevention of domestic violence have also been established in 25 cities and districts.

Tainings are being held for law enforcement agency officials, and those working in education, healthcare, women rehabilitation centers, and department for women and family affairs.