Tajikistan advances investment in integrated social and child protection systems to strengthen human capital

DUSHANBE, 16 October 2026 – The Government of Tajikistan, in partnership with UNICEF, today convened a High-Level Policy and Investment Roundtable to strengthen investment in integrated social and child protection systems as a foundation for the country’s human capital development, inclusive economic growth and social resilience.

The roundtable, “Strategic Investment in Human Capital: Building Integrated Social and Child Protection Systems in Tajikistan,” brought together senior Government officials, international financial institutions, development partners, United Nations agencies, civil society, academia and the private sector to identify opportunities for coordinated financing, policy alignment and technical support for Tajikistan’s child protection reform agenda.

Protecting children from violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation and family separation is essential not only to fulfilling children’s rights, but also to Tajikistan’s long-term development. Children who grow up in safe and supportive environments have better opportunities to learn, develop and participate productively in society. Strong social and child protection systems can also help reduce vulnerability, strengthen families and improve the effectiveness of public investment.

In May 2026, the Government approved a comprehensive Child Protection Systems Reform, providing a framework for strengthening coordination, case management, family support and social services. This follows the adoption of landmark legislation in 2024 prohibiting all forms of corporal punishment of children and strengthening protections for children.

The need for continued action remains significant. According to Tajikistan’s 2023 Demographic and Health Survey, 56 per cent of children aged 1–14 experienced some form of violent discipline, underscoring the importance of prevention, early intervention and accessible services for children and families.

The roundtable focuses on how investments across social protection, health, education, justice and the social service workforce can be better aligned to support an integrated protection system. It also provides a platform for development partners to discuss financing priorities for 2027–2030 and opportunities to strengthen coordination and reduce fragmentation.

The discussions come ahead of the Second Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children, taking place in Manila on 18–19 November 2026. The roundtable will contribute to Tajikistan’s preparations for the conference and support the development of commitments aimed at accelerating progress towards ending violence against children.

UNICEF will continue working with the Government of Tajikistan and partners to strengthen sustainable, integrated and adequately financed social and child protection systems so that every child can grow up safe, supported and able to reach their full potential.