OSCE strengthens engagement with border communities in Tajikistan’s Khatlon region

From 6 to 25 July 2026, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe, in co-operation with Tajikistan’s Border Troops, conducted 15 awareness-raising meetings in border districts of Khatlon region. The activity brought together border security officers and local residents to strengthen dialogue and co-operation on border security and management, particularly in light of security risks originating from Afghanistan.

Residents living along the border learned about border protection legislation and ways to co-operate with the Border Troops. Discussions also focused on potential threats and the importance of promptly reporting unusual or suspicious activities to relevant national law enforcement authorities. The sessions also highlighted the role communities can play in supporting border security.

Through regular engagement, the meetings introduced the concept of border community policing, helping to build trust, strengthen partnerships and encourage information-sharing between residents and security services.

Approximately 1,350 civilians participated in the meetings, including local administration representatives, students, teachers and other residents. Around 40 per cent of them were women. As part of the activity, the OSCE also distributed 2,500 calendars to residents living near the Tajik-Afghan border, featuring Border Troops’ hotline numbers to facilitate reporting of border-related violations.

The initiative increased residents’ awareness of their role in supporting border protection efforts and encouraged continued engagement between communities and security services.