ISO: TJK
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The electronic version of this document has been prepared at the Fourth
World Conference on Women by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
in collaboration with the United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women
Secretariat.
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AS WRITTEN


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                       Excerpt from Press Release.
  The written statement was not available in a scannable language at the
                time of presentation in the conference.
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   BOZGUL DODHUDUEVA, Deputy Prime Minister of Tajikistan:  The
situation in Tajikistan is determined by the extent to which human rights
are respected.  The country is committed to the principles of international
law.  Tajikistan is now forming national machinery to ensure equal rights
and opportunities for women.  Certain such mechanisms are already in
operation.  The work of defending women's interests and enhancing their
role in society is also being dealt with by women's non-governmental
organizations.  Grassroots women's committees of various kinds have also
been created.

   Tajikistan's constitution affirms equality of spouses in marriage and
divorce.  Women have equal access to the civil service and to elective
office.  Today, women scientists head special educational establishments
and are working in all sectors of the national economy.  Legislative
authorities are doing a great deal to improve the status of women in the
country.  However, a stereotype of distrust of the business abilities of
women limit their entrance into business.  With economic difficulties, it
is primarily women who have been losing their jobs.