In 2024, Tajikistan initiated 107 criminal cases for evasion of military service, resulting in the conviction of 30 young men. This information was disclosed by the Commissioner for Human Rights in Tajikistan, Umed Bobozoda, in his annual report.
According to Bobozoda, the charges were brought under Article 343 of the Criminal Code of Tajikistan, — evasion of military and alternative service. This law stipulates fines ranging from 37,500 to 75,000 somonis or imprisonment for a term of two to five years.
The human rights commissioner also reported 95 cases of violence and mistreatment of soldiers in 2024, referred to officially as “violations of the statutory rules of relations between military personnel.” Additionally, 13 employees of military enlistment offices were penalized for failing to properly perform their duties.
In a concerning trend, 34 officers reportedly deserted their units last year, and 28 individuals left their posts without permission.
While Bobozoda labeled these actions as criminal, he did not specify the penalties imposed on the deserters.
On a positive note, the ombudsman highlighted an increase in the number of young people voluntarily enlisting in the military. This comes amid ongoing debates each year about the forced conscription of youth into the armed forces, as well as concerns over the conditions of service and mistreatment of recruits. Poor conditions, hazing, and reports of fatalities among soldiers are frequently cited as reasons why many young Tajiks try to avoid military service.
It’s worth noting that the autumn conscription campaign began in Tajikistan on October 1, 2025. By the first day of the campaign, 55% of the planned draft had already been fulfilled, with the conscription set to continue through the end of November.
