GENEVA (2 March 2016) – United Nations human rights expert David Kaye will conduct his first visit to Tajikistan, from 3 to 9 March 2016, to assess the situation of the right to freedom of opinion and expression in the country.
“I look forward to learning about the challenges to freedom of expression in Tajikistan, as well as initiatives taken to ensure this fundamental right is well protected,” the UN Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression said.
“I will look, among other issues, at the measures taken to ensure public debate in the country, the independence of the media, as well as the safety of journalists and activists,” the independent expert noted.
Mr. Kaye, who visits the country at the invitation of the Government of Tajikistan, will meet with various national authorities, including the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Culture and the Minister of Interior. He will also hold discussions with non-governmental organizations, journalists and the media.
The Special Rapporteur will present a report to the UN Human Rights Council on the main findings of his visit and make recommendations on the promotion of the right to freedom of expression in Tajikistan.
The human rights expert will host a press conference to share his preliminary observations on Wednesday 9 March 2016 at 14:00 at the United Nations premises in 39 Ayni Street, Dushanbe. Access to the press conference is strictly limited to journalists.