Tajikistan has been ranked 108th out of 139 countries in the 2025 Global Innovation Index (GII), making it the least innovative country among former Soviet republics. The ranking, released by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), highlights growing concerns about the country’s lagging innovation capabilities.
Compared to last year, Tajikistan has slipped one position, reflecting a continued downward trend in innovation-related performance.
Innovation refers to new ideas, methods, or technologies that improve existing processes, solve persistent problems, or enhance efficiency and convenience. From developing new devices to streamlining workflows and creating modern communication tools, innovation plays a critical role in economic growth and quality of life.
In stark contrast to Tajikistan’s position, Estonia leads the post-Soviet bloc at 16th place, followed by Lithuania (33rd), Latvia (41st), and Georgia (56th). Other regional rankings include Armenia (59th), Russia (60th), Ukraine (66th), Moldova (74th), Uzbekistan (79th), Kazakhstan (81st), Belarus (85th), Azerbaijan (94th), and Kyrgyzstan (96th).
Turkmenistan was not included in the index.
Globally, Switzerland, Sweden, the United States, South Korea, and Singapore top the list. Notably, the United Kingdom, Finland, the Netherlands, Denmark, and China entered the top 10 for the first time.
The bottom three spots went to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola, and Niger.
The report notes that global innovation progress is being hampered by slowing investment flows into research and development.
The GII uses around 80 indicators to assess innovation performance, including R&D spending, venture capital activity, high-tech exports, and intellectual property filings.
Published annually since 2007, the Global Innovation Index has become a benchmark tool for policymakers, business leaders, and institutions to foster innovation and develop sustainable innovation ecosystems. It is recognized by the United Nations General Assembly as an authoritative source for science, technology, and innovation policy.
The 2025 edition was jointly prepared by WIPO and the Portulans Institute.
