22 November 2023, Dushanbe, Tajikistan – The First Session of the Public Council of the Migration Services took place in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Under the auspices of the Ministry of Labor, Migration, and Employment, representatives from key government bodies, public associations, international institutions, the private sector, academic circles, and the financial sector gathered to exchange experiences and information on ingoing, outgoing and internal migration trends in Tajikistan. Targeted attention was given to establishing strategic partnerships and collaborating with other programs at the national level. A key outcome of the Session was the election of Imatsho Nodirzoda as the Chairman of the Public Council.

The Session also featured a presentation of the results of the 2023 research dedicated to monitoring the protection of migrant rights. These findings will serve as a basis for making informed decisions and improving conditions for migrants.

Additionally, a report on the assessment of platforms for informing migrants was presented. This document will serve as a foundation for developing effective communication strategies with migrants, including those currently active, potential migrants, and those who have returned to their homeland.

Utilizing this platform and the coming together of key stakeholders and representatives, IOM used this opportunity to conduct our meeting of the National Coordination Mechanism (NCM). This mechanism allows key stakeholders to discuss, identify challenges and develop solutions to strengthen migration policy and protect the rights of migrants both in Tajikistan and abroad.

The event was carried out within the framework of regional projects: "Labor Migration Program in Central Asia," funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), and "Protection of Vulnerable Migrants with a Special Focus on Expanding the Rights and Opportunities of Women in the Context of Migration in Central Asia," funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway.

For more information: Nilufar Shekhova, nshekhova@iom.int;