Tajikistan Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Tajikistan, Central Asia state; 143 100 km², 9.1 million residents (2019).Tajikistan borders north to Kyrgyzstan, east to China, south to Afghanistan and west to Uzbekistan. The capital is Dushanbe (788 700 residents, 2015).

Country facts

Republic of Tajikistan / Republic of Tajikistan
Country abbreviation: TJ
Area: 143 100 km²
Population (2019): 9.1 million residents
Capital: Dushanbe
Main language: Tajik
State: Republic
Head of State: Emomali Rachmon (President)
Head of Government: Qohir Rasulzoda
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 827
GNI per capita (2018): USD 1,010
Currency unit: 1 somoni = 100 dirams
Currency code: TJS
Country number (telephony): 992
Internet domain name: tj
Time difference compared to Sweden: +4
National Day: September 9 (Independence Day, 1991)

Nature

Land use: forest (4%), agricultural land (7%), other (89%)
Highest mountain: Ismoili Somoni (7 495 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 64 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 2.1%; birthrate 25 ‰, death count 4 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (34%), 15-64 (63%), 65- (3%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 73 years, women 77 years
Infant mortality (2019): 27 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 16 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.650 (place 127 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 26%
Most populous cities (2015): Dusjanbe (788,700 residents), Chudzhand (172,700), Kuljab (101,200)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (29%), industry (26%), service (45%)
Exports (2017): US $ 873 million
Main export products: aluminum, electricity, food
Main exporting countries: Turkey, China, Russian Federation
Imports (2017): US $ 2 390 million
Main import products: oil products, aluminum, machinery and transport equipment
Main importing countries: Russian Federation, Kazakhstan, China
Railway network (2014): 700 km

Geography of Tajikistan

Location and Borders

Tajikistan is a landlocked country situated in Central Asia. It shares borders with Kyrgyzstan to the north, Uzbekistan to the west, Afghanistan to the south, and China to the east. The country covers an area of about 143,100 square kilometers (55,300 square miles), making it the smallest country in Central Asia. Tajikistan’s geographic location places it at the crossroads of several major civilizations, which has influenced its culture, history, and strategic importance.

The country is largely mountainous, as it lies within the Pamir Mountains, which are sometimes referred to as the “Roof of the World” due to their high altitude and significance in Central Asian geography. The mountains cover over 90% of the country’s land area, with the remaining portion of the country being comprised of valleys and river basins.

Terrain and Landscape

Tajikistan’s landscape is characterized by rugged mountain ranges, deep valleys, and high-altitude plateaus. The Pamir Mountains are the most notable feature, with peaks that rise over 7,000 meters (23,000 feet). These mountains create a natural barrier and are part of the larger Tien Shan and Hindu Kush mountain systems. The Pamir region is home to Tajikistan’s highest point, Ismoil Somoni Peak (formerly known as Communism Peak), which stands at 7,495 meters (24,590 feet), making it the highest mountain in the country.

The country is also home to several important river systems. The Amu Darya River, which flows along the border with Afghanistan, is one of the main rivers of the region. The Vakhsh River, another significant river, flows from the highlands to the plains in the south. These rivers are vital for irrigation, agriculture, and hydropower generation, which is important for the country’s economy.

Water Bodies

Tajikistan has numerous lakes, many of which are high-altitude bodies of water located in the Pamir Mountains. One notable lake is Lake Sarez, which was formed by a massive landslide in 1911. The country also has reservoirs that serve as crucial sources of water for both irrigation and hydroelectric power. The rivers and lakes in Tajikistan are vital not only for the nation’s water supply but also for the livelihoods of its people, particularly those who live in the valleys and river basins.

Climate of Tajikistan

Continental Climate

Tajikistan experiences a continental climate, with harsh winters and hot summers, especially in the lowland areas. The country’s high elevation and mountainous terrain contribute to significant variations in climate depending on location. The valleys and lower regions, like the Fergana Valley in the north, have a milder climate, while the mountain regions experience colder, more extreme temperatures. The capital, Dushanbe, which is located in the southwestern part of the country, has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate with very hot summers and mild winters.

Seasons and Precipitation

Tajikistan has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The summer season, from June to September, is hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) in the lowlands. The mountainous regions are cooler during this time, with temperatures remaining much milder.

The winter season, from December to February, can be extremely cold, particularly in the mountain regions, where temperatures can fall well below freezing. Snow is common in the higher altitudes, and the mountain passes may be impassable for long periods during the winter. The central and lower areas of the country experience more moderate winter temperatures, but the region is still subject to occasional cold snaps and strong winds.

Precipitation is generally low in Tajikistan, with the majority of rainfall occurring in the spring and winter. The mountainous regions receive more precipitation than the lowland areas, which can sometimes lead to flooding, especially in the spring when snow melts.

Natural Disasters

Tajikistan is susceptible to various natural disasters due to its mountainous terrain and climate. Earthquakes are a particular concern, as the country is located near the tectonic boundary between the Indian and Eurasian plates. Landslides, avalanches, and flash floods are also common, particularly in the mountainous regions, posing significant risks to infrastructure and the local population.

People of Tajikistan

Population and Demographics

Tajikistan has a population of approximately 9.5 million people. The majority of the population is ethnically Tajik, a group that shares linguistic, cultural, and historical ties with other Persian-speaking peoples. Tajiks speak Tajik, a variety of Persian, which is the official language of the country. Other ethnic groups in Tajikistan include Uzbeks, Kyrgyz, Russians, and smaller groups such as Turkmen, Kazakhs, and Pamiris, who speak their own languages and follow distinct cultural practices.

The population is relatively young, with a median age of around 24 years. This youthful demographic presents both opportunities and challenges for the country, particularly in terms of education, employment, and healthcare. The population density is highest in the central and southern regions, where the majority of the people live in the lowlands and river valleys.

Religion

Islam is the predominant religion in Tajikistan, with the majority of the population being Sunni Muslims, though there is also a significant minority of Shia Muslims, particularly among the Ismaili community in the mountainous regions. Religion plays an important role in the cultural and social life of the country, with religious practices influencing holidays, family life, and the calendar. The government of Tajikistan is officially secular, though the influence of Islam remains strong, particularly in rural areas.

Tajikistan’s religious practices also include pre-Islamic traditions that are woven into the cultural fabric of the country. These practices include ancestor worship, traditional festivals, and rituals, which have survived for centuries and are often observed alongside Islamic practices.

Urbanization and Rural Life

Although Tajikistan’s population is predominantly rural, there has been a steady trend toward urbanization in recent decades. The capital city, Dushanbe, has experienced significant population growth and now serves as the country’s political, cultural, and economic center. Other urban centers include Khujand and Bokhtar, although most of the population continues to live in rural areas, where agriculture is the primary occupation.

Rural life in Tajikistan is often centered around family and agricultural work. Many people in rural areas grow cotton, grain, and fruit, with some also raising livestock. Due to the country’s mountainous nature, agriculture is often limited to the river valleys and lower altitudes, where irrigation systems are used to water crops.

Economy of Tajikistan

Key Economic Sectors

Tajikistan’s economy is one of the least developed in Central Asia, but it has made gradual progress since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Agriculture remains the backbone of the economy, employing a significant portion of the population. Cotton is the primary cash crop and a major export commodity, although the sector has faced challenges due to water scarcity, inefficient irrigation, and environmental degradation. Other key agricultural products include grains, fruits, vegetables, and livestock.

In addition to agriculture, mining plays a vital role in Tajikistan’s economy. The country is rich in natural resources, including precious metals such as gold, silver, and aluminum. The mining sector, particularly gold and aluminum production, contributes significantly to the country’s GDP. Tajikistan’s vast hydroelectric potential is also an important economic asset, as the country has numerous rivers and mountain streams that can be harnessed for energy production.

Services and Tourism

Tajikistan’s services sector is underdeveloped, but it has potential for growth, particularly in tourism. The country’s natural beauty, including its mountains, lakes, and valleys, attracts adventure tourists and those interested in eco-tourism and mountaineering. Tourism to the Pamir Mountains and the famous Wakhan Corridor (which runs along the border with Afghanistan) has grown, though the country still faces challenges in terms of infrastructure and political stability.

Challenges and Development

Tajikistan faces several economic challenges, including high levels of poverty, a lack of infrastructure, and a dependence on remittances from Tajik migrant workers in Russia. The country is heavily reliant on its cotton and mineral exports, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in commodity prices. The agricultural sector also faces difficulties due to the country’s dependence on irrigation from neighboring countries and its lack of modern agricultural techniques.

The government has made efforts to improve the economy by focusing on infrastructure development, particularly in transportation and energy, and by attracting foreign investment in mining and other sectors. However, political instability, a lack of diversification in the economy, and the challenge of managing natural resources sustainably continue to hinder rapid economic growth.

Government and Politics

Political Structure

Tajikistan is a presidential republic, where the president holds substantial power over the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. The president is elected for a seven-year term, and the position is currently held by Emomali Rahmon, who has been in power since 1992. The political system in Tajikistan has been characterized by the centralization of power, with the presidency holding significant influence over the country’s politics, economy, and military.

The legislative branch of the government consists of a bicameral parliament, which includes the Majlisi Milli (Council of the Republic) and the Majlisi Namoyandagon (Assembly of Representatives). The president appoints a significant number of members of the Majlisi Milli, and the Majlisi Namoyandagon is partially elected. The judiciary is technically independent but is often seen as being influenced by the executive.

Political History

Tajikistan’s history as an independent state is relatively short, as it was part of the Soviet Union until 1991. Following independence, the country faced a devastating civil war from 1992 to 1997, which pitted government forces against opposition groups and resulted in tens of thousands of deaths. The civil war ended with a peace agreement, but the country’s political stability remained fragile for years afterward.

Since the end of the civil war, Tajikistan has been ruled by Emomali Rahmon, who has overseen a process of political consolidation, while opposition parties and movements have been largely marginalized. The government has prioritized stability and economic growth but has faced criticism for its handling of human rights issues, political freedoms, and media censorship.

Recent Political Developments

Tajikistan’s political landscape remains dominated by President Rahmon, who has been in power for over two decades. In recent years, the country has seen growing calls for greater political reform, particularly among younger generations who are pushing for more democratic governance. However, the government has continued to maintain strict control over political opposition and dissent. While the economy has seen some growth, challenges such as corruption, poverty, and political repression persist.

Culture of Tajikistan

Arts and Architecture

Tajikistan’s culture reflects a blend of Persian, Turkic, and Russian influences, with a rich tradition of poetry, music, and the arts. The country is known for its beautiful handicrafts, such as carpets, embroidery, and pottery, as well as its traditional music. Classical Persian poetry, particularly the works of poets like Rudaki and Omar Khayyam, is highly regarded, and Tajik literature has a strong literary tradition that has been preserved over centuries.

Architecture in Tajikistan reflects its Persian heritage, with grand structures such as mosques, madrasas, and fortresses dating back to the country’s early Islamic period. The ancient city of Panjikent, with its ruins of the Sogdian civilization, is one of the most significant historical sites in Tajikistan.

Music and Dance

Tajikistan has a vibrant musical tradition, with a strong emphasis on folk music and classical Persian instruments like the rubab and dutar. Tajik music is often characterized by its lyrical poetry, which is performed alongside instrumental music. Dance, particularly traditional dances such as the Lazgi, is an important part of social celebrations and festivals. These dances are typically performed in groups, and the movements are characterized by graceful, fluid motions that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the country.

Festivals and Traditions

Tajikistan celebrates a range of religious and cultural festivals. The most significant of these is Nowruz, the Persian New Year, which is celebrated with feasts, music, and dancing. Other important holidays include Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha, the Muslim festival of sacrifice. Additionally, traditional agricultural festivals, including those related to the harvest, are celebrated throughout the country, particularly in rural areas.

Cuisine

Tajik cuisine is influenced by Persian, Central Asian, and Russian culinary traditions. The staples of Tajik cuisine include rice, meat, vegetables, and bread. Plov (pilaf), a dish made with rice, meat, and carrots, is the national dish, often served at celebrations and gatherings. Other popular dishes include shashlik (grilled meat), manti (dumplings filled with meat and onions), and samsa (pastries filled with meat or vegetables). Bread, especially flatbread, is an essential part of every meal.

Tajikistan’s cuisine also features an array of dairy products, and tea, particularly green tea, is a staple beverage enjoyed throughout the day.

Language and Literature

Tajik is the official language of the country, a variety of Persian that is spoken by the majority of the population. Tajik literature has deep roots in Persian literary traditions, and many of the country’s great poets and authors have made significant contributions to Persian literature. Russian is also widely spoken in the capital and urban areas due to the country’s Soviet past, and many Tajiks are multilingual, speaking both Tajik and Russian, along with other languages such as Uzbek and English.