Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan: Prioritizing Human Rights in New Border Agreement

Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan signed a border agreement on March 13, 2025, aimed at addressing disputes from a 2022 conflict. Human Rights Watch stresses the need to prioritize human rights and justice for victims of the conflict as essential for lasting peace. The agreement includes land swaps, water resource management, and demilitarization, but accountability for past violations remains crucial.

On March 13, 2025, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan entered into a significant agreement concerning their disputed border, opened by Tajik President Emomali Rahmon’s first official visit to Kyrgyzstan since the 2022 border conflict. This accord, ratified by both nations’ parliaments, aims to alleviate tensions and has led to the reopening of border crossings. Human Rights Watch emphasizes the importance of prioritizing human rights and delivering justice to the victims of past conflicts to ensure a lasting peace in the region.

Human Rights Watch’s Europe and Central Asia director, Hugh Williamson, stated that residents of the contested border region have suffered greatly, underscoring the agreement as a vital step towards peace. However, he cautioned that establishing trust requires a commitment to human rights and accountability for past injustices. The agreement outlines land swaps, joint management of water resources, and a commitment to demilitarizing the border area.

The September 2022 conflict between the two nations was particularly violent, resulting in the deaths of at least 37 civilians, with many more injured. Both sides have been accused of committing war crimes during this unrest, including indiscriminate attacks and targeted violence against civilians. Previous conflicts in April 2021 also resulted in significant civilian casualties and property damage, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and justice.

The principles of international humanitarian law, which mandate the protection of civilians during armed conflicts, apply to both countries. Human Rights Watch strongly calls for thorough investigations into these violations to provide transparency and justice for victims and their families. The newly ratified agreement entails the transfer of the Kyrgyz village of Dostuk to Tajikistan in exchange for a similarly sized area, emphasizing the necessity of safeguarding local rights, including property and access to basic services.

Furthermore, both governments are urged to foster initiatives promoting human rights and reducing hostility within border communities. They are encouraged to endorse international declarations aimed at protecting educational facilities and minimizing the use of explosive weapons in populated areas. In this context, international partners should assist Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan in their efforts to foster trust through respect for human rights and to investigate humanitarian law violations, ensuring accountability as a cornerstone of future cooperation.

The border agreement represents a pivotal opportunity for Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to progress toward a harmonious future. However, according to Human Rights Watch, meaningful progress hinges upon the commitment to prioritize the rights of local populations and redress past grievances.

The border agreement between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan marks a crucial step towards stability but must focus on human rights and justice for past victims. Ensuring accountability for war crimes and fostering community trust are essential for a peaceful coexistence. Both governments need to respect local rights, promote human rights initiatives, and engage their international partners to facilitate these objectives. Only through these measures can both nations cultivate a future of cooperation and harmony along their borders.

Original Source: www.hrw.org