The Delegation of the European Union to Tajikistan and the Embassies of France, Germany, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the United States of America express their deep concern about reported internal tensions and violent clashes within the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous region.

We call on all parties to spare no effort to de-escalate, exercise restraint and refrain from excessive use of force and incitement to violence. We urge the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan to ensure that law enforcement agencies act in strict compliance with the rule of law and uphold the standards of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms even in security-related crisis situations. The reported intimidation and prosecution of citizens and journalists, and the apparent broad limitation of access to information, undermine the prospects for a swift de-escalation and return to normal order.

We deeply regret the loss of life and express our sincere condolences to the families. Our sympathies go as well to those who have been injured, including local residents and those in law enforcement.

In conclusion, we encourage all to engage in good-faith communication and seek an expeditious path to de-escalation of the situation.