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Culture

Touching Fairy Tales: In Ust-Kamenogorsk, Books Are Knitted, Sewn, and Brought to Life

At the A.S. Pushkin Library in Ust-Kamenogorsk, East Kazakhstan region, reading has become a tactile adventure. Here, books aren’t just read, they’re knitted, sewn, and handcrafted. Librarians have discovered a magical way to ignite children’s interest in reading: through tactile books that can be touched, flipped through, and even assembled. “The main thing is to find an approach to each child. Even if they haven’t been encouraged to read at home, we can change that in the library,” says Dinara Mergenbayeva, head of the Center for Knowledge. The idea was born from a desire to make books more relatable. “Who says children don’t read? They do, and with great curiosity! They just need something new, lively, and emotional,” she explains. Knitted Books and Soft Stories The library’s first knitted book was a Kazakh-language version of the alphabet primer Әліппе, inspired by Kulmay Sembayeva’s Aripler aleminde (“In the World of Letters”). Each letter is paired with a poem and a small, crocheted animal or object, which children can pull from pockets and explore. “For example, the letter A, next to it are an akhu (swan) and an ayu (bear). We knitted and cut out all the figures ourselves. The materials came from our homes. Even the cover was made from my old suede boots, they’ve found a second life now,” one librarian shares. Another handcrafted creation is Pushkin’s The Tale of the Fisherman and the Fish. In this interactive version, characters can be moved around, allowing children to change the course of the story. Kids act out scenes, invent new endings, and immerse themselves more deeply in the narrative. [caption id="attachment_37026" align="aligncenter" width="355"] @Yulia Chernyavskaya[/caption] There’s even a trilingual crocheted edition of Abai’s The Seasons, in Kazakh, Russian, and English. Its pages include trees, snowflakes, flowers, and ladybugs, all detachable and fastened with buttons. Children can “switch” winter to spring, collect leaves, or “scatter” snow, transforming play into reading. “This helps develop fine motor skills, imagination, and a love of books. The key is to keep it interesting,” notes Mergenbayeva. Books You Won’t Find Anywhere Else Each tactile book is handmade, with production times ranging from three weeks to six months. The entire library staff is involved, from brainstorming to material selection and testing books with children. Special editions are created for older students, including a large-format album commemorating Abai’s 175th anniversary, with sections titled “Abai the Writer,” “Abai the Philosopher,” and “Abai the Musician.” “If a child remembers even one illustration, that’s a success. A book should leave an impression, visual, emotional, any kind,” says a librarian. Each edition includes a QR code linking to a digital version in the library’s electronic collection. When Children Bring Their Parents At Pushkin Library, reading is a family affair. Every Saturday features shared reading sessions, reinforcing the tradition of reading together. “The youngest children come with their parents, and later they’re the ones dragging them back. Kids literally pull their moms and dads to the library,” Mergenbayeva smiles. For teenagers, there’s the Literary...

Social Media

Tajikistan Debates Social Media Ban for Children Under 14

A controversial proposal in Tajikistan to ban social media use for children under the age of 14 has sparked public and expert debate. While many agree that the issue requires urgent attention, critics argue that education, digital literacy, and parental involvement offer more effective solutions than blanket prohibitions. Parliamentary Push for Stricter Controls The initiative was introduced by lawmaker Dilnoza Ahmadzoda in an article in Narodnaya Gazeta. She proposed banning access to social media for children under 14 and requiring written parental consent for adolescents aged 14 to 17. Ahmadzoda pointed out that amendments to the Law on the Protection of Children’s Rights were already passed earlier this year, targeting false and harmful content. However, she contends that these changes do not go far enough. “It is necessary to introduce further changes to ensure that children’s and teenagers’ use of social media is under control,” Ahmadzoda said. Expert Concerns: "A Ban Is Not the Solution" Experts caution that an outright ban may do more harm than good. Media literacy specialist Rustam Gulov warned that prohibitions often increase curiosity and drive youth online behavior underground. “A ban is not the solution. If you forbid it, interest will only grow, and young people will find ways to hide their activity. Such measures push them backward in terms of technological development. Control is more effective,” Gulov said. He noted that while platforms already impose age restrictions, children frequently bypass them using false birthdates or by accessing accounts through their parents’ devices. Gulov recommended closer collaboration with companies such as Meta to establish more effective content controls. He also advocated for the inclusion of media literacy education in school programs. “Children should learn from an early age how to use the internet and social networks responsibly and how to distinguish false or harmful information,” he said. Another major concern, according to Gulov, is the lack of quality digital content in literary Tajik. As a result, many young users switch to Russian-language platforms. “Social networks can serve as an educational tool, if there is enough quality content in Tajik,” he added. Public Opinion in Dushanbe Reactions among residents of the capital are mixed. Some favor tight restrictions, while others emphasize the potential benefits of social media in education and personal development. Psychologist Nigina Mamadjonova opposes a complete ban but underscores the importance of parental responsibility. “This is primarily the responsibility of parents. Unfortunately, most of them do not take it seriously,” she said. Mamadjonova criticized the widespread practice of giving smartphones to children “for quick peace and quiet” without supervising their activity. She warned that this leaves children vulnerable to cyberbullying, manipulation, and online predators. She also argued that preschoolers should not use phones at all, as screen time isolates them from physical activity and social interaction. For older children, she supports promoting digital literacy and steering them toward constructive online content. Mixed Results Abroad Other countries have implemented similar restrictions with varying degrees of success. In Australia, minors under 16 are prohibited from using platforms...

Suicide

Over 100 Female Suicides Reported in Tajikistan in First Half of 2025

In the first six months of 2025, 102 women and 30 girls died by suicide in Tajikistan, according to figures announced by Bunafsha Fayziddinzoda, head of the Committee on Women and Family Affairs. Disturbing Trends While the overall number of female suicides declined by eight cases compared to the same period in 2024, the number among girls rose by six. The Committee has been conducting large-scale preventive efforts. As part of its outreach, 430,264 families were visited in a “door-to-door” campaign, accompanied by 3,847 “district-to-district” and “village-to-village” meetings and 795 school-based awareness events. Gender-Based Violence: Not Just a Women’s Issue From January to June 2025, authorities recorded 2,121 cases of violence, 277 more than in the same period last year. Women accounted for 1,763 of these cases, up by 256, while cases involving men fell to 251, a decline of 86. Fayziddinzoda cited the primary causes of domestic violence as spousal conflict, jealousy, third-party interference, and mental or physical illness. Economic and sexual violence were also reported. She added that in many cases, violence against men is perpetrated by in-laws, including a wife’s brothers, fathers, and uncles. In July, the Committee launched hotline 1313. It received 58 calls in its first month, nine of them from men. According to Azimova, male callers reported abuse by wives, daughters-in-law, and in some cases, their own mothers. Children and Marriage Official data showed that 30,356 marriages were registered in the first half of 2025, a slight increase of 78 from the same period in 2024. However, 4,117 marriages were dissolved, affecting 3,632 children. While divorces decreased by 291 cases, 230 court-sanctioned marriages involving minors were also registered, 100 fewer than last year. Nonetheless, 26 early marriages involving underage girls were reported. Those responsible have been prosecuted under Articles 168 and 169 of the Criminal Code. Penalties include fines of up to 150,000 somoni ($15,700), corrective labor, or up to five years of restricted liberty. Education Access and Structural Challenges Obstacles to compulsory secondary education also increased: 271 cases were recorded, 59 more than in the previous year. Those found guilty, usually parents or guardians, face prosecution under Article 164 of the Criminal Code, with penalties of up to $9,500 in fines, compulsory labor, or up to two years of imprisonment. Compulsory education in Tajikistan now includes grades 10 and 11, a move implemented in 2024 to combat early marriage, particularly in rural regions where girls were often removed from school after grade 9. Azimova stressed that violence is not confined to socially disadvantaged families. “Today, there are people who are seen as model citizens, even hajis, who unfortunately behave unacceptably toward their wives and children, unbeknownst to those around them,” she said. The Committee reiterated that violence and crime cut across all segments of society and must be addressed universally.

Demographics

Kazakhstan’s Birth Rate Continues to Fall Amid Demographic Concerns

Kazakhstan is witnessing a sustained decline in its birth rate despite government efforts to stimulate demographic growth. In their latest report, analysts at Ranking.kz have explored why more Kazakhstanis are choosing to have fewer or no children, and what factors are driving this downward trend. Sharp Decline in Newborn Numbers According to official data, 77,300 children were born in the first quarter of 2025, a 15.8% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. This continues a multi-year decline: annual births dropped from 446,500 in 2021 to 365,900 in 2024. Kazakhstan’s total fertility rate also reflects this trend. After peaking at 23.5 births per 1,000 people in 2021, the rate has steadily fallen to 18.2 in 2024 and further to 15.4 in early 2025. Regionally, Mangistau and Turkestan remain the most fertile areas, with 21.3 births per 1,000 people, followed by Shymkent (19.7). The lowest rates are in North Kazakhstan (8.5), Kostanay (9.5), and East Kazakhstan (9.6). Changing Attitudes Toward Parenthood A 2024 national survey shows a growing reluctance among citizens to expand their families. Over half (51.3%) of respondents said they already have children and do not plan to have more. Only 13% hoped to have two children, 9.1% three, and 10.5% four or more. Meanwhile, 3.9% said they do not intend to have children at all, a sentiment more common in urban areas (4.5%) than in rural regions (3%). Among urban parents, 52.4% said they would not have more children, compared to 49.5% in rural communities. UN projections suggest Kazakhstan's demographic decline will persist. The fertility rate is expected to dip to 19 in 2025, 17.6 in 2034, and continue falling to 11.4 by 2100, raising concerns about aging and the growing demographic burden. Economic and Medical Challenges According to the platform "Children of Kazakhstan", economic hardship remains a central factor. Rising costs for housing, healthcare, and education have made child-rearing increasingly unaffordable, prompting many to delay or reconsider parenthood altogether. Societal values are also shifting. More young Kazakhs are prioritizing education, careers, and personal development. Women, in particular, are pursuing higher education and professional goals before starting families. Healthcare issues have further exacerbated the trend. The number of women diagnosed with infertility rose to 29,100 in the first half of 2024, surpassing the total for all of 2023 (28,500). This figure has climbed steadily from just 10,000 in 2019. Male infertility is also rising, though the numbers are significantly lower. Reported cases increased from 36 in 2019 to 119 in 2021, before fluctuating slightly to 108 in 2023.

Labor migrants

Fatherless Tajik Children: The Social Consequences of Labor Migration

Labor migration has become a daily reality in Tajikistan, and a vital means of survival for many families. It is estimated that between 800,000 and 1 million citizens (up to 20% of the labor force) work abroad. Remittances make up a significant share of GDP, estimated between 27 % and nearly 50 %, with one measure at 45 % in 2024, helping families cover essential expenses such as food, education, and healthcare. However, this economic stability comes at a high social cost, which is often paid by the children left behind, many of whom grow up without adequate parental care. Shifting Roles: Mothers and Children Left Behind The prolonged absence of a father figure significantly alters family dynamics. Women, mothers, grandmothers, and often older children assume all household and caregiving responsibilities. Tasks traditionally viewed as “men’s work,” such as repairing windows, chopping wood, and cultivating land, are now undertaken by those remaining at home. Children are frequently forced to grow up early. Older siblings help raise younger ones, cook meals, and manage household chores while their mothers work. In some cases, these duties interfere with education. In rural areas, it is not uncommon for girls to leave school after the ninth grade to help sustain the household. Experts note that parental absence accelerates emotional and social maturity by placing an undue burden on children. Studies confirm this trend: around 15% of children aged 10 to 14 in migrant households are engaged in informal labor, working in markets or fields instead of attending school. As a result, many children are deprived of a full childhood and are compelled to act as “little adults,” shouldering family responsibilities. The issue is widespread. In Tajikistan, where labor migration is especially intense, up to 30% of school-age children are raised by grandparents or extended family members. Thousands grow up under the care of older siblings while both parents or, more commonly, fathers, are abroad. The Emotional Toll: Loneliness and Psychological Strain The long-term absence of fathers also takes a psychological toll. While phone and video calls offer some form of connection, they are no substitute for physical presence. Communication is often irregular: surveys show that 70% of children speak with their migrant parent less than once a week, and 15% only once a month. Feelings of abandonment and emotional detachment are widespread. One in three children of labor migrants reportedly exhibits signs of depression, including apathy, sadness, and a declining interest in school. Approximately 40% feel lonely and emotionally neglected. Teachers note lower academic performance and reduced motivation among these children. Moreover, the absence of paternal supervision can contribute to behavioral issues: up to 10% of adolescents from migrant families in Tajikistan display signs of deviant behavior, such as aggression and minor offenses, significantly higher than among their peers in two-parent households. Family relationships often suffer as well. Women left behind effectively become single parents, managing both emotional and material responsibilities. Years of separation, financial strain, and infrequent visits can lead to emotional distance between spouses. Observers note...

Marriage

The Pressure of Tradition: Why Child Marriage Persists in Tajikistan

Although the legal age for marriage in Tajikistan is 18, courts may grant permission for girls to marry at 17 under “exceptional circumstances.” In reality, however, girls are often married off at even younger ages. Parents routinely petition courts with emotional appeals, citing poverty, orphanhood, or the wishes of elderly relatives, to secure early marriages for their daughters. Legal Loopholes and Judicial Discretion As explained by lawyers from PRO BONO DE JURE, applicants must justify their request to lower the marriage age and provide supporting evidence. Yet the law offers no clear definition of what qualifies as “exceptional,” leaving judges broad discretionary power. In practice, economic hardship is the most common justification. Sociologist Gulnora Beknazarova, who reviewed approximately 550 court cases on underage marriage, found that only one involved a couple in love. “The rest were applications from poor families or guardians claiming they couldn’t afford to care for the girl,” she said. In some instances, judges have approved marriages simply because wedding plans were already in motion and the bride’s age came to light only during registration. “These cases account for just 3%,” noted gender researcher Diana Ismailova, “but their very existence highlights a troubling precedent.” Social Pressures and Family Expectations In rural communities, many mothers fear their adolescent daughters may come under “bad influences” and lose their virginity before marriage. “After ninth grade, girls are impossible to control... they ruin their future,” said one woman who arranged her daughter’s marriage at 16, as quoted by Your.tj. Elder family members also play a significant role. In traditional Tajik households, their wishes often carry the weight of law. For some, marrying off a granddaughter is a final wish, one that younger family members feel obligated to fulfill. According to Beknazarova, societal expectations enforce a rigid timeline for girls. “There’s a ‘social clock’ that ticks faster for them. If a woman isn’t married by 22, she risks being labeled an ‘old maid,’” she explained. In contrast, men face far less societal pressure regarding marriage age. “Marriage at 16 isn’t rare,” she added. “Even if not officially registered until 18, society still views it as normal.” Cultural Norms vs. Practical Realities Early marriages are often poorly considered. Parents seldom ask: “What if she divorces?” or “How will she support herself?” Divorce rates are rising, but it is typically the woman who ends up raising the children alone. Beknazarova attributes these decisions to a traditional mindset in which a girl’s path is predetermined: marriage and motherhood. “You marry off your daughter because it’s time, because that’s what everyone does,” she said. Still, change is slowly taking root. In 2024, amendments to Tajikistan’s Education Act made schooling through grades 10-11 compulsory. More girls are completing their education, and awareness efforts by government and civil society groups are helping shift attitudes around women’s rights. “Young people are already thinking differently,” Beknazarova said. “And life will sort everything out in time.”