“The reality is that the will, efforts, tolerance and ancient wisdom of the civilized and culturally minded Tajik nation, as well as the creative thinking and indomitable spirit of the Tajik people are the most important factors in achieving peace and tranquility, political stability and national unity.”

President Emomali Rahmon

         National unity has a huge and fateful significance for the people of Tajikistan. This concept is a symbol of peace, unity, mutual understanding and solidarity of all the peoples of the country, achieved after the difficult years of civil war. The signing of the General Agreement on the Establishment of Peace and National Accord on June 27, 1997 put an end to the bloody war, saved Tajikistan from disintegration and destruction, and created a solid foundation for the further development of society. Below we will briefly consider some aspects of such a fateful phenomenon in the political and public life and the process of formation of the modern national statehood of Tajikistan.

          Peace, stability and social security: National unity brought peace to the country, put an end to the civil war and ensured social security. Today, Tajikistan is considered one of the most peaceful, prosperous and beautiful countries, and people live in such a pleasant and peaceful atmosphere. Peace and national unity also created favorable conditions for political reforms, economic and social development and international cooperation. This stage contributed to the strengthening of national identity and the enhancement of Tajikistan's role in the region and on the world stage.

          Unity and solidarity of the nation: National unity is a real symbol and essence of the philosophy of peacemaking, civilization and tolerance of the Tajik nation, personifying the unity and cohesion of all the people of Tajikistan. This process created the basis for the revival of the nation and the restoration of the ruins of war, contributed to economic, social and political development. National unity is not only the ethnic unity of Tajiks, but also the unity of all residents of the country, regardless of national and religious affiliation. These values ​​​​provide an atmosphere of peace, tranquility and friendship between different nations and groups in society. National unity, as a unifying factor, allowed all layers and forces of society to unite for common goals and increase resilience to internal conflicts and external challenges.

Economic and social development: Peace and unity have created favorable conditions for economic development, raising living standards and implementing major social projects. Equal economic opportunities and reducing inequality between regions and social groups contribute to the integrity of society. Indeed, national unity in Tajikistan has had a significant and positive impact on economic and social development. After many years of civil war, which was accompanied by huge human and economic losses (more than 10 billion US dollars), the signing of the General Agreement on the Establishment of Peace and National Accord became the basis for peace and national unity, saved the country from destruction and united people. National unity, as the highest value and foundation of peace, ensured peace and stability, created conditions for economic and social development. Having achieved peace and unity, Tajikistan was able to unite various forces and promote the development of national statehood and civil society. This unity created the basis for political and social stability, which became a favorable basis for economic development and raising the living standards of the people.

Freedom and human rights: National unity has become the basis for the observance and development of human rights and freedoms violated during the war. Freedom of speech, religion and the creation of democratic and civil institutions became possible thanks to this unity. National unity, as a symbol of unity and solidarity of all the people of Tajikistan, has allowed for better protection and observance of human rights and civil liberties. With the restoration of peace, a favorable atmosphere has been created for the development of civil society, in which citizens can actively participate in democratic processes and decision-making. This process contributes to strengthening the rule of law, social justice and equality of opportunity. Also, the annual celebration of National Unity Day with cultural and political events emphasizing the ethnic and cultural diversity of the country strengthens the spirit of unity and friendship between different groups in society. These factors play an effective role in the development of civil society and the protection of human rights.

          The basis of modern statehood. National unity contributed to the formation of an independent Tajik state and the strengthening of the foundations of its national statehood. It is considered the embodiment of culture, tolerance and the peace-loving nature of the Tajik nation. Indeed, national unity in Tajikistan has had a great and constructive impact on the creation of a modern statehood and the strengthening of its national foundations. It has created an opportunity for the country's progress in all areas. This unity has contributed to the revival of national and traditional values, the celebration of national history and culture, as well as the revival of ancient history and the presentation of Tajikistan in the international arena. Thanks to unity, Tajikistan has become a secure and stable state, its people have been recognized as a peace-loving and humane nation and have received recognition and respect from the international community.

          Preservation of independence and protection of national interests: National unity is the main means of preserving state independence and protecting national interests. This value has made the people resilient and able to withstand internal and external challenges. Thanks to national unity, Tajikistan was able to overcome post-war problems and achieve significant success in all areas. National unity has allowed Tajikistan not only to preserve its independence, but also to protect national interests at the international level and proudly present its rich history. National unity also helps to strengthen the sense of patriotism and strengthen national identity among residents, educate the younger generation in the spirit of unity, which is important for political stability and sustainable development of the country.

          In a word, national unity for the people of Tajikistan is not only the memory of war and peace, but also the main source of progress, peace and prosperity of the country. It allowed society to move towards a bright future, preserve universal and national values, and Tajikistan to develop as an independent and united state.

Shamsiddin KARIMOV

Chief Researcher of the Institute

for the Study of Asian and European States,

National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan