Alert statement on violence in eastern Tajikistan

“The tensions in Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO) that have erupted into violence this week are deeply concerning both for Tajikistan and for regional fragility.

“Frustrations are growing around the military response to events since November 2021, and there is a distinct possibility violence could now escalate further.

“With the ongoing violence and information blackout, it is imperative that the safety, rights, and lives of civilians are protected. 

“To avoid further violence and death, we urge all parties — from government officials in Dushanbe and Khorog to the general population in GBAO — to de-escalate, engage in dialogue, and find common ground and peaceful solutions to the crisis.

“This week’s violence must serve as a wake-up call to the international community of growing risks to regional fragility across Central Asia.”

Statement issued by International Alert on 20 May, 2022.

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