Police Reform

The meeting was focused on the establishment of a Public Council to assist the police reform process in Tajikistan, in particular, the discussion of the draft Provision on the Public Council. Public Council will encourage citizens, lawyers, scientific, religious and other organizations to take an active part in the implementation of state policy related to prevention and detection of crime, protection of public order, implementation the principle of transparency and openness in police activity and to protect the rights and freedoms of citizens of the Republic of Tajikistan.

It was highlighted that one of the main aims of the Public Council is to improve the trust the community has in law enforcement agencies within Tajikistan and to improve communications and relationships between the police, NGOs, media and all sections of public throughout Tajikistan.

Mr. Ulf Billving outlined to the participants the projects currently being implemented by the OSCE OiT and funded through the unified and extra budgetary funds. He has also provided brief details of future activities like a new Law on Police, Identification Procedures whilst reducing potential for witness intimidation called Two Way Mirrors, practical training on “crime scene examination and forensic recovery of evidence,” etc. which is aimed at benefiting the citizens of Tajikistan and law enforcement agencies.

Mr. Odinaev highlighted the need for development of the concept of Community Policing that would include monitoring of police activities and provide opportunity for consultation and communication between law enforcement agencies and society.

During the meeting representatives from NGO’s provided significant and important inputs in respect of current police performance and attitude of the community towards the police. Comments were provided which highlighted a lack of trust in the police and again reinforced the need to develop these relationships as a priority. Fifty percent of the participants expressed their concerns of having Public Councils as a body under the Police. They suggested it to be established as a free body independent from the Police.

Ms. Shukrikova, Deputy Head of Association of Lawyers of Pamir supported comments made by others in a balanced and professional manner but again reinforced the public perception of a lack of trust in the police at present and was critical of the manner with which the police undertook their activities.

The OSCE provided reassurance to the Sub-Group that within Phase II of the Police Reform Project they will support the Ministry of Internal Affairs in expanding Community Policing at a regional and local level.