OSCE Centre raises awareness on fair trials in Tajikistan

DUSHANBE, 31 May 2005 - The OSCE Centre in Dushanbe today launched a project aimed at training professionals on trial monitoring techniques to improve the transparency and fairness of trials in Tajikistan.

"This programme has the potential to become a source of inspiration for all those involved in the country's justice system," said Ambassador Alain Couanon, the Head of OSCE Centre in Dushanbe.

"The programme will deliver recommendations to improve the work of the courts. The OSCE is ready to continue to help Tajikistan in this field."

At the initial stage, the local NGO Human Rights Centre will train 10 court representatives and legal experts from Dushanbe and Khujand. The seminars will focus on methods for observing the work of the courts on the basis of national legislation and international standards concerning the right to a fair trial.

The project, entitled Ensuring Fair Trials through Monitoring in Tajikistan, also includes the publication of a manual on trial monitoring and analytical publications, which will include recommendations to the state authorities on ways to improve the work of the courts.

The project's overall goal is to raise public awareness on the right to fair trials, to enhance Tajikistan's compliance with national and international standards in this field, thereby increasing public confidence in the legal system.