Human Development Report: Tajikistan 1996

The focus of this report, in addition to the presentation of information on standard of living, social development and the economy, is on "habitat", which, for the purposes of this report, means the interaction of the individual with others and with his/her immediate surroundings. This orientation is appropriate since human settlements is the theme of the last major world summit, Habitat II, sponsored by the United Nations. For this reason, much information provided in this year's report relates to how the population actually lives - in the context of its settlements - and what problems confront the central government, local authorities and individuals in this context. As we move into the 21st century, Tajikistan is facing one of the most trying periods in its history. With the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, the country found itself ill prepared for meeting all the challenges that independence demanded - socially, economically and politically. Civil war ensued in 1992, resulting in a tragic loss of life and leaving deep divisions between regions, ethnic groups and political groupings within a society with diverging ambitions and visions of its future. Although the process of national reconciliation is under way, and the economic and political situation is stabilizing, there are still numerous contradictions within Tajik society which continue to impact the political, economic and social life of the country. The road to lasting peace and prosperity will not be an easy one, but the people are committed to building a just and humane society, with the dignity of the individual at its very centre. In this connection, the Human Development Report for 1996 will facilitate the continuing national debate on ways of tackling the various problems confronting our future.