Because of the conflict in Afghanistan, over 2,800 Afghan refugees have fled to Tajikistan seeking a better quality of life. Because of their cultural similarities, these Afghan refugees have integrated without trouble into Tajikistan’s society; however, Tajikistan is currently going through a recession so there are limited jobs for citizens and refugees.
Even before Afghans fled to the neighboring country, Tajikistan was experiencing high unemployment as a result of a lack of jobs. As the population continues to rise, Tajiks and Afghans have been competing for jobs, but the majority cannot find employment. Many girls have been learning skills, such as sewing or makeup, to try to increase their chances of finding a job, but once they complete their training, they do not get hired. Male refugees often have to bribe their employer in order to get a job. Thankfully, Afghan refugees are being welcomed into Tajikistan because most refugees, such as the Rohingya Muslims, do not get treated with respect in other countries. While unemployment is a huge issue that affects both Afghans and Tajiks, there is not much the citizens and refugees can do about it. It is up to the Tajikistan government to take action and try to fix the recession. Not only does Tajikistan need to implement a policy that could boost the economy and lead to more opportunities for employment, but it needs to control the number of immigrants fleeing into the country. The situation for citizens of Afghanistan is something that nobody should have to live through; however, the Afghans need to find a more stable country that can support them. It is unfair for the Tajikistan citizens to have to compete for jobs with those who have been there for a few months since they have been seeking employment for years. Although citizens of Afghanistan experience tragedy almost everyday, the possibility of having an equally difficult life in Tajikistan is high due to their recession, therefore, refugees need to consider the consequences of their actions on the Tajiks before fleeing.