DUSHANBE, March 17, Asia-Plus  -- Tajikistan has made the significant efforts to improve human rights throughout the year 2005, the 2005 Tajikistan Country Report says, noting that Tajikistan is an essential part of Central Asia''s "Corridor of Reform." 

The report, in particular, notes that Tajikistan''s 2005 parliamentary elections were a step forward in the democratic process and the government has progressed in combating trafficking in persons. 

The report also points out setbacks and problems, concerning basic human rights, such as freedom of the media, speech, and religion.  “The Tajik government and Tajikistan''s civil society recognize these problems and are working together to resolve them,” the report says.

The preservation of human rights and democratic values is essential to peace, security and prosperity.  The Human Rights Report provides "constructive criticism" for those who are committed to taking further steps to advance human rights.  The U.S. Embassy welcomes an open dialogue with the government and people of Tajikistan on the status of human rights in Tajikistan, as well as on the value of the Tajikistan Country Report.

            According to information from the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe, U.S. Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, unveiled the 2005 U.S. Department of State Annual Report on Human Rights March 8.  The Report is a comprehensive overview of the status of individual rights in 196 UN member countries, including Tajikistan.  Information in the Tajikistan Country Report is compiled from hundreds of sources, including Tajikistan''s government, the Tajik and international mass media, and local and international civic organizations.