UN Praises, Critiques Tajikistan On Human Rights

Tajik President Imomali Rakhmonov (left) and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The UN body looked at human rights in both men's countries (file photo) (epa) November 25, 2006 (RFE/RL) -- A UN human rights body says that although Tajikistan has made some improvements on human rights, improvements are still needed in some areas.

In a new report, the United Nations Committee Against Torture says Tajik authorities resort to pre-trial detention that can last up to 15 months, and noted a high number of deaths in custody.

The group also called on Tajikistan to guarantee the judiciary's independence.

The UN forum is comprised of 10 independent experts and monitors compliance with a 1984 treaty banning torture and other degrading treatment.

The conclusions were issued at the end of a three-week meeting, during which the committee also examined Russia's record.