DUSHANBE, May 7, Asia-Plus — The National Democratic Institute (NDI) has announced closing of its office in Dushanbe and stops program activities, following Tajik government’s refusal to approve NDI’s application for registration, a source at the NDI Dushanbe Office said.
Press release issued by NDI on April 21, in particular said, “The National Democratic Institute (NDI) today appealed to the government of Tajikistan to approve NDI’s application for registration as a sign of the country’s continuing commitment to international cooperation. In a third good-faith attempt at registration so far in 2008, NDI submitted its latest application to the government of Tajikistan on April 8 for legalization and final approval.”
Former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright, who serves as chairman of the NDI Board of Directors, said, “NDI’s registration in Tajikistan would be a positive sign of the government of Tajikistan’s willingness to fulfill its commitments to international cooperation.”
“NDI has worked in Tajikistan openly, responsibly, and in a nonpartisan manner that is respectful of Tajikistan’s sovereignty,” NDI President Kenneth Wollack said. “We have made every effort to comply with the registration procedures. We look forward to resuming a constructive partnership with Tajikistan.”
NDI began working in the Republic of Tajikistan in 2002, sharing international experiences with all registered political parties and with civic groups. The Institute currently operates throughout Central Asia, with offices in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. However, NDI’s program activities in Tajikistan have been on hold since April 2006, pending registration.
The National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI) is a non-partisan, non-profit, non-governmental organization that supports democratic values and practices in more than 60 countries. Calling on a global network of volunteer experts, NDI provides practical assistance to civic and political leaders advancing democratic values, practices and institutions. NDI works with democrats in every region of the world to build political and civic organizations, safeguard elections, and to promote citizen participation, openness and accountability in government.
