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Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal – Vol. 10, No. 8
Publication Date: August 25, 2023
DOI:10.14738/assrj.108.15282.
Gabbay, S. M. (2023). Crushed Under Authoritarian Rule: Islam, State Power, and Religious Persecution in Tajikistan. Advances in
Social Sciences Research Journal, 10(8). 172-178.
Services for Science and Education – United Kingdom
Crushed Under Authoritarian Rule: Islam, State Power, and
Religious Persecution in Tajikistan
Shaul M. Gabbay
Global Research Institute,
Posner Center for International Development, Denver, CO USA
ABSTRACT
This report delves into the pressing issue of human rights abuses in Tajikistan,
shedding light on the authoritarian rule that governs the nation. The historical
backdrop of Soviet rule and post-independence developments provide crucial
context to understand the entrenched power structure. A grim picture emerges as
we explore the stifling of freedom of expression and assembly, where dissent is met
with repression and opposition is silenced. Media censorship and restrictions on
independent journalism further erode democratic principles, leaving citizens
devoid of unbiased information. Reports of torture, arbitrary detention, and a lack
of due process underscore the disregard for the rule of law and the rights of
individuals. This report emphasizes the importance of addressing religious
persecution and the need for the international community's involvement to
encourage democratic reform and improvements in human rights, paving the way
for a brighter and more inclusive future for Tajikistan.
Keywords: Human rights, authoritarian, independence, repression, torture, censorship,
persecution.
INTRODUCTION
At the heart of Central Asia, Tajikistan stands as a nation with a turbulent history, transitioning
from the clutches of Soviet rule to an independent state in 1991. However, this newfound
independence did not pave the way for democratic governance; instead, it witnessed the rise of
an authoritarian regime under President Emomali Rahmon. With an iron grip on power,
Rahmon and his ruling elite have effectively stifled political opposition and limited the scope of
political pluralism.
The status quo is not likely to change in the foreseeable future. Rahmon was re-elected
president until 2027, and by all appearances is preparing for a dynastic transition of power. He
appointed his eldest son, Rustam Emomali to chair the Upper House in 2020, the second-most
important political position in the country. [1]
The political landscape in Tajikistan is marked by a centralized and personalized power
structure, where key decisions are concentrated within the President's domain. Political
opposition and dissent are systematically suppressed, and critics of the government are subject
to harassment and imprisonment. Torture is a serious concern in detention. [1] The civil war
that engulfed the nation from 1992 to 1997 left a deep scar on Tajik society, further cementing
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Gabbay, S. M. (2023). Crushed Under Authoritarian Rule: Islam, State Power, and Religious Persecution in Tajikistan. Advances in Social Sciences
Research Journal, 10(8). 172-178.
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.108.15282
the current regime's hold on power. While the conflict ended in a peace accord, it also laid the
groundwork for the consolidation of authoritarian rule.
The state's authoritarian grip extends to its control over the media and freedom of expression.
Independent journalism is stifled through censorship and harassment, leaving citizens with
limited access to unbiased information. Reports of torture, arbitrary detention, and a lack of
due process expose the grim reality faced by those who dare to challenge the regime's narrative.
As Tajikistan grapples with an authoritarian rule, another concerning aspect casts a dark
shadow over the nation's social fabric – the persecution of religious minorities. Despite its
predominantly Muslim population (90%),[2] Tajikistan's government has imposed restrictions
on Islamic religious practices outside state-approved institutions. The regime vehemently
defends the secular nature of the state, dismissing any religious activity that falls beyond its
narrow interpretation of authentic religious tradition.
Numerous religious minorities, not just Muslims but also various other faith communities,
including Jehovah’s Witnesses, Salafists (a tiny Muslim sect), Protestants and others suffer
under the weight of the state's intolerance. [3] The government's crackdown on religious
observance beyond state-run institutions has led to the marginalization of independent
religious leaders and communities. These actions have effectively reduced the diversity of
religious practices, creating an atmosphere of fear and oppression.
Moreover, the regime has banned and persecuted religious opposition groups, branding them
as terrorists. [2] This move further erodes religious freedom and suppresses any dissenting
voices within the religious community. The suppression of religious liberties not only infringes
on fundamental human rights but also undermines the rich cultural heritage that has long
defined Tajik society.
Addressing religious persecution in Tajikistan is of utmost importance, not just for the sake of
upholding human rights but also to foster a climate of inclusivity and mutual respect. A vibrant
and diverse religious landscape, where the rights of all faith communities are respected, could
enhance social cohesion and stability.
The international community cannot remain indifferent to the plight of Tajikistan's citizens
under the repressive rule. Diplomatic engagement, constructive dialogue, and support for civil
society organizations and human rights defenders can play a crucial role in advocating for
positive change. Leveraging international organizations and regional partnerships can add
weight to calls for democratic reform and improvements in the human rights situation.
HISTORICAL PRECEDENT FOR AUTHORITARIANISM IN TAJIKISTAN
The Legacy of Soviet Rule and Its Impact on Governance Structures
The echoes of the Soviet era reverberate through Tajikistan's modern-day political landscape,
leaving an indelible mark on the nation's path to independence. Under the Soviet Union,
Tajikistan was molded into a republic governed by the iron-fist of Moscow. The central
authority wielded immense power, quashing any signs of dissent and suppressing political
opposition. This top-down approach to governance instilled a culture of authoritarianism that
would persist even after Tajikistan gained independence in 1991.
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Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal (ASSRJ) Vol. 10, Issue 8, August-2023
Services for Science and Education – United Kingdom
During the Soviet era, the Communist Party's supremacy was absolute, with little room for
political pluralism. The system fostered a bureaucratic hierarchy that concentrated decision- making power in the hands of a few, leaving the majority of the population with limited
participation in the governance process. This lack of inclusivity and political representation laid
the groundwork for a future dominated by strongman rule.
Post-Independence Political Developments and Consolidation of Power
Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Tajikistan embarked on its journey towards self- governance and democratic ideals. However, the transition was fraught with challenges,
particularly during the early years of independence. Political instability and factionalism
marred the country's political landscape, leading to a bitter civil war that raged from 1992 to
1997.
In the aftermath of the civil war, while President Emomali Rahmon emerged as the victor and
assumed the reins of power, he was forced by the still heavy hand of Russia to reconcile with
the enemy Tajik Islamists and share power. “However, to continue the course toward national
reconciliation would have required a lot of President Rakhmon and his closest allies. To make
the arrangement last, Rakhmon would have had to countenance the idea of elections, of the
possibility of giving someone else a shot at the nation’s top post. But Rakhmon and his
immediate circle pursued the opposite strategy instead: sidelining potential rivals, especially
former military commanders who could prove dangerous again “ [4]
Rahmon’s presidency, which began in 1992, has extended for over three decades, making him
one of the longest-serving leaders in the region. The post-independence era saw the gradual
consolidation of power in the hands of Rahmon and his loyalists, creating an environment
where opposition and dissent were met with repression.
The political developments post-independence further solidified the foundations of
authoritarian rule in Tajikistan. The concentration of power in the executive branch, coupled
with limited political pluralism, curtailed the potential for a vibrant and inclusive democratic
system.
The Influence of Regional and Geopolitical Factors on Tajikistan's Governance
Tajikistan's geographical location amidst a complex web of regional and geopolitical interests
has had a profound impact on its governance. Situated in Central Asia, the country is bordered
by Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and China. This strategic position has drawn the
attention of major powers and regional actors, shaping Tajikistan's political landscape.
In the post-Soviet era, Tajikistan experienced numerous challenges, including spillover effects
from the Afghan conflict and the rise of regional Islamist movements. The specter of extremism
and terrorism further complicated the government's approach to governance and national
security. To counter these perceived threats, the Tajikistani authorities intensified their control
over political dissent and religious expression, employing measures to suppress any
opposition. [5]
Moreover, Tajikistan's geopolitical context has influenced its relationships with major powers
such as Russia and China. The country's heavy reliance on remittances from Tajik migrant