A Study on Poverty in Tajikistan

Abstract Tajikistan is one of the most impoverished countries in the world today, with low rates of human development as well as inadequate social services. The state currently faces several development challenges, beginning with inhospitable geography that severely limits the expansion of an agricultural sector and prevents the development of adequate transportation capabilities. Tajikistan has a legacy of colonialism that was characterized by repression and stagnation, and ultimately assisted the development of poor institutions that continue to plague Tajikistan's governance today. Finally, Tajikistan's history of violent conflict has served to decimate financial resources as well as state infrastructure. The state, its neighbors, and several international financial institutions have attempted a variety of development policies, beginning in 1991 with post-communist market reforms. Tajikistan has been the recipient of many loans and grants, which were provided with the goal of alleviating poverty in the country. While these policies have succeeded in making progress towards financial stability, they are impossible to maintain and ultimately have not made enough progress towards promoting human development in Tajikistan. Instead, Tajikistan would benefit from investment into energy production and the agricultural sector of its economy. As its neighbor, China is the most ideal investment partner for these projects. Lastly, economic development resulting from these projects will eventually allow for the development of adequate institutions, which should be a focal point for future projects in the state.