The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced a new initiative aimed at enhancing the resilience of rural women in Tajikistan, a country grappling with significant socio-economic challenges. This program is crucial in a context where rural women play a pivotal role in the economy yet face numerous barriers that hinder their full participation and empowerment.
Context
Tajikistan, a landlocked nation in Central Asia, has a history marked by civil conflict, economic instability, and environmental vulnerabilities. The legacy of the 1992–1997 civil war continues to impact its socio-economic landscape, with many rural areas remaining underdeveloped and impoverished. Approximately 30% of the population lives below the national poverty line, with rural women disproportionately affected due to traditional gender roles and limited access to resources.
Despite legal frameworks that promote gender equality, implementation remains weak, particularly in rural settings. A recent report by the ADB highlights that while women contribute significantly to the rural economy through both paid and unpaid