Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan must prioritize human rights in their new border deal which aims to resolve longstanding conflicts. Signed on March 13, 2025, the agreement follows a deadly conflict in 2022. Several measures are proposed to safeguard local populations, ensuring accountability for past violations, while fostering cooperation and reconciliation between the communities.
Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan must prioritize local human rights in their recently signed border deal, according to Human Rights Watch. The agreement was finalized on March 13, 2025, during Tajik President Emomali Rahmon’s inaugural visit to Kyrgyzstan since the violent border conflict in September 2022. Following the ratification by both countries’ parliaments, border crossings have reopened, signaling a tentative move toward reconciliation.
Human Rights Watch emphasizes that the aftermath of the conflict should focus on establishing long-lasting peace through respect for human rights and addressing wartime injustices. Notably, thousands residing in the disputed border areas have suffered from ongoing tensions and violence stemming from the conflict, which resulted in severe casualties. The four-day hostilities in September 2022 alone led to the deaths of at least 37 civilians and injuries to 121 others.
The border agreement involves land swaps of equal size and cooperative management of water resources, while also prohibiting militarization near the border. Yet, both governments face significant challenges as their troops have allegedly committed war crimes, including indiscriminate attacks on civilians. Furthermore, previous clashes in April 2021 also resulted in numerous civilian casualties and extensive property damage.
To comply with international humanitarian law, both nations are obligated to distinguish between combatants and civilians and to avoid disproportionate harm to non-combatants. The ongoing lack of accountability for past violations highlights the urgent need for both governments to investigate and remedy these transgressions, ensuring victims receive justice and appropriate compensation.
As part of the border adjustments, the village of Dostuk in Kyrgyzstan will be swapped with a portion of Tajik territory. The residents of Dostuk have requested supplementary land in their new village, illustrating the importance of safeguarding local rights throughout this transition. In addition, initiatives to foster respect for human rights and to combat hate speech are crucial for advancing peace in border communities.
In conclusion, the recent border agreement between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan signifies a pivotal moment in addressing long-standing conflicts. However, for this agreement to foster genuine stability, it is vital that human rights are prioritized and historical injustices addressed. Both governments must ensure accountability for past violations while promoting the rights of affected communities, thereby creating a foundation for sustainable peace and mutual respect in the region.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
