From 7 to 11 April 2025, the ECOM team visited Tajikistan to provide technical assistance and to map partner organizations working in the field of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
During the visit, a series of working meetings were held with key partners — international organizations, government agencies and initiative groups. Discussions focused on current challenges and prospects for the development of HIV prevention programs, including PrEP, as well as the state of civil society engagement.
ECOM staff met with representatives of the Republican Center for Prevention and Control of AIDS, the WHO country office, UNAIDS, UNDP, ICAP and other partners. Particular attention was given to the difficulties faced by HIV service organizations and PrEP program clients.
In meetings with representatives and leaders of initiative groups, issues such as safety, outing, limited access to funding and the need for flexible support in an increasingly restrictive environment for civil society were raised.
As for the PrEP program, discussions covered plans to expand coverage, challenges related to community trust and the need to improve resource allocation. The importance of developing information campaigns and training specialists was also emphasized.
Following the visit, a set of recommendations was developed to support civil society, improve PrEP programs, promote evidence-based approaches to legal issues and ensure the safety and confidentiality of clients. Promising areas of work include integrating PrEP issues into the IBBS study, expanding online training and collaborating with “friendly clinics”.
ECOM will continue to work with partners in Tajikistan to jointly find solutions and ensure the sustainable development of programs in the region.