Tajikistan’s lower house of parliament (Majlisi Namoyandagon) has approved a draft law titled “On the Status of Teachers”, aimed at protecting the professional rights and dignity of educators in the country.  The legislation outlines teachers’ rights, responsibilities, legal protections, and professional guarantees.

The bill was passed on October 15 during a regular session of parliament.  While the law was adopted, it remains unclear whether any amendments or additions were made to the final text.

The legislation must now be seconded by the upper house of parliament (Majlisi Milli) and signed by President Emomali Rahmon.  Once published in official media, it will enter into force one month after publication.

A presidential initiative to restore respect for educators

The development of the law follows a 2024 directive by President Rahmon, who during his Knowledge Day address voiced concern about the declining prestige and status of teachers in Tajik society. He called for comprehensive legislative action to improve their standing and working conditions.

The law explicitly protects the honor and dignity of teachers, prohibits their involvement in non-teaching activities such as community cleanups (subbotniks) or fundraising duties at schools, and ensures safeguards against verbal abuse and undue pressure.

Key guarantees under the law include:

·         Priority access to land plots

·         Housing support for teachers

·         Legal protection of professional activities

Other legislative developments

During the same session, parliament also approved amendments to the laws on military duty and military service, on the legal status of military personnel and on the state budget for 2025

Details of these amendments were not disclosed.

Additionally, lawmakers ratified an investment agreement between the Tajik government and Asim LLC for the restoration and expansion of production capacities at the Adrasman Mining and Processing Plant.