OSCE supports persons with disabilities to strengthen disaster resilience across Tajikistan

From May to July 2026, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe, in partnership with the Public Organization "Mehrbakhsh" and the Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defence of Tajikistan (CoESCD), organized a series of information sessions to strengthen disaster resilience among persons with disabilities in Isfara, Baljuvon and Darvoz. The initiative was implemented with the support of the local executive authorities in the three target districts.

A total of 71 participants, including 31 women and 40 men, enhanced their knowledge of disaster risk reduction (DRR), climate change, the rights of persons with disabilities, emergency preparedness and first aid. Participants also learned how to use the SoS Mehrbakhsh and SoS CoESCD mobile applications, which provide accessible emergency information and guidance for persons with disabilities. Participants installed the applications and gained hands-on experience using them during simulated emergency scenarios.

"Being aware of safety changes our way of life. Never ignore safety rules, as they should be followed rather than regretted," said Tengniev Kholmahmad, Chairman of the Association of Disabled People "Mehrbakhsh".

The three-day sessions combined presentations, videos, brainstorming, group work, case studies and practical first aid exercises to encourage active learning. During scenario-based group exercises, participants analysed fire, flood and earthquake scenarios, identified evacuation routes, considered the specific needs of persons with disabilities and developed practical recommendations for safer and more inclusive emergency response.

In addition to strengthening the capacities of persons with disabilities, the initiative increased awareness among local government representatives and civil society organizations of the importance of disability-inclusive DRR. Participants also familiarized themselves with Tajikistan's disaster risk reduction legislation, relevant international frameworks and the latest tools available to improve preparedness and response.

"I received a lot of useful information during this three-day training. Now I know how to act during earthquakes, floods and other emergency situations. I would like to express my gratitude to the organizers," said Parinamo Khojatova, a participant of the session.

As climate change continues to increase the frequency and severity of natural hazards, strengthening the preparedness of vulnerable groups has become increasingly important. With more than 168,000 registered persons with disabilities in Tajikistan, promoting their meaningful participation in DRR contributes to more inclusive and resilient communities.

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe remains committed to supporting national partners in advancing disability-inclusive DRR in line with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and Tajikistan's national DRR priorities.