World Happiness Report for Tajikistan 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Tajikistan: 88
- Happiness Score Tajikistan:5.281
Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.
What is the Happiness Index?
The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.
How is the Happiness Index Calculated?
The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.
In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:
- GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
- Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
- Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
- Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
- Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
- Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.
These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.
What Does the Happiness Index Affect?
The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:
- Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
- Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
- Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
- Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.
By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.
Short information
- Abbreviation of Tajikistan. TJ.
- Located in Central Asia
- Has a presidential republic political system
- Notable for its rich Persian-influenced culture
Overview of Tajikistan
Early History: Tajikistan’s territory has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of settlements dating back to the 4th millennium BCE. The region was home to various ancient civilizations, including the Bactrian-Margiana Archaeological Complex and the Sogdian civilization, which played a significant role in the development of the Silk Road trade routes.
Kingdoms and Empires: The area was part of several major empires, including the Achaemenid Persian Empire, the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom, the Kushan Empire, and the Samanid Empire. It later fell under the control of the Mongol Empire, the Timurid dynasty, and the Shaybanids.
Colonial Period: Tajikistan was gradually absorbed into the Russian Empire during the 19th century, becoming a part of the Governorate-General of Turkestan.
Independence and Modern Era: After the Russian Revolution of 1917, Tajikistan became part of the Soviet Union. It gained independence in 1991 after the dissolution of the USSR. However, the country experienced a civil war from 1992 to 1997, which had a devastating impact on its economy and society. Since then, Tajikistan has been working towards rebuilding and development.
Current Political Situation: Tajikistan is a presidential republic, with Emomali Rahmon serving as the president since 1994. The country has a bicameral parliament, but the political landscape is dominated by the ruling People’s Democratic Party of Tajikistan.
International Relations: Tajikistan maintains close ties with Russia and is a member of several regional organizations, including the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU). It also has partnerships with China and seeks to balance its relationships with various global powers.
Human Development and Economy: Tajikistan has a predominantly agricultural economy, with cotton, aluminum, and hydropower being major export commodities. Despite economic growth in recent years, poverty and unemployment remain significant challenges, with the country ranking low on the Human Development Index.
Cultural Highlights: Tajikistan has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Persian, Turkic, and Russian traditions. The country is known for its traditional music, dance, and poetry, as well as its vibrant cuisine. Islam is the predominant religion, with the majority of the population practicing Sunni Islam.
Challenges and Opportunities: Tajikistan faces ongoing challenges related to poverty, corruption, and environmental issues, such as water scarcity and soil degradation. However, the country also has opportunities for development in sectors like hydropower, tourism, and regional trade facilitation.
Travel Tips for Tajikistan
Here are some essential travel tips for tourists visiting Tajikistan:
Best Times to Visit
The ideal time to visit Tajikistan is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot, especially in the lowlands, while winters can be harsh, especially in the mountainous regions.
Cultural Etiquette
Tajikistan is a conservative society, and visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It’s respectful to remove shoes when entering mosques or homes. Greet elders first and avoid public displays of affection.
Safety Precautions
While Tajikistan is generally safe for travelers, it’s advisable to avoid border areas and exercise caution in remote regions. Registered guides are recommended for trekking and mountain adventures. Petty crime can occur, so keep valuables secure.
Must-See Landmarks
Some of the top attractions in Tajikistan include the ancient city of Khujand, the Pamir Highway (one of the world’s highest roads), the Iskandar-Kul Lake, the Hissar Fortress, and the Seven Lakes of Marguzor.
Culinary Experiences
Tajikistan’s cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with influences from Persian, Central Asian, and Russian traditions. Try local specialties like plov (rice dish with meat and vegetables), shashlik (skewered grilled meat), and qurutob (salad with dried bread and meat).
Living in Tajikistan
Here are some practical tips for those considering moving to Tajikistan:
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Tajikistan is relatively low compared to many other countries. However, salaries are also generally low, and the standard of living can vary greatly between urban and rural areas.
Housing
Accommodation options range from modern apartments in cities to traditional houses in rural areas. Expats may find it challenging to find suitable housing, and it’s advisable to seek assistance from local contacts or agencies.
Healthcare
The healthcare system in Tajikistan is underfunded, and medical facilities may not meet international standards, especially outside major cities. Private healthcare facilities are available but can be expensive. Comprehensive medical insurance is recommended.
Education
The education system in Tajikistan is still developing, with limited resources and facilities. International schools are available in the capital, Dushanbe, but can be costly. Many families opt for homeschooling or international online education.
Lifestyle
Tajikistan is a predominantly Muslim country, and cultural norms and traditions should be respected. Social gatherings, hospitality, and family ties are important aspects of Tajik culture. Outdoor activities like hiking and trekking are popular due to the country’s mountainous terrain.
Legal Requirements
Foreigners planning to live in Tajikistan will need to obtain the appropriate visas and work permits. The process can be bureaucratic, and it’s advisable to seek assistance from local legal experts or consult with relevant authorities.
Doing Business in Tajikistan
Here is a guide for conducting business in Tajikistan:
Business Culture
Tajikistan’s business culture is influenced by both Islamic and Soviet traditions. Personal relationships and trust are highly valued, and it’s important to build strong connections before conducting business. Hierarchies should be respected, and decisions are often made by top-level managers.
Economic Climate
Tajikistan is a lower-middle-income country with a developing economy. The private sector is growing, but the government still plays a significant role in many industries. Key sectors include agriculture, mining, energy, and textile production.
Key Industries
Major industries in Tajikistan include cotton production, aluminum smelting, hydropower generation, and mining (gold, silver, and precious stones). The country is also seeking to develop its tourism industry, particularly in the Pamir Mountains region.
Legal Framework
Tajikistan has been working to improve its business environment and attract foreign investment. However, the legal framework can be complex, and bureaucracy and corruption remain challenges. It’s advisable to seek legal counsel and conduct thorough due diligence when starting a business.
Negotiation Strategies
Patience and building personal relationships are crucial for successful negotiations in Tajikistan. Discussions may move slowly, and it’s important to maintain a respectful and non-confrontational approach. Involving local partners or intermediaries can be beneficial.
Building Local Partnerships
Developing strong local partnerships is essential for navigating the Tajik business landscape. Local contacts can provide valuable insights, assist with bureaucratic procedures, and help build trust and credibility with potential clients or partners.
Studying in Tajikistan
Here are some guidelines for students planning to study in Taj
Main facts
Location
Tajikistan is a landlocked country located in Central Asia. It is bordered by Afghanistan to the south, Uzbekistan to the west, Kyrgyzstan to the north, and China to the east. The narrow Wakhan Corridor of Afghanistan extends between Tajikistan and Pakistan. Tajikistan is situated along the Gissar and Alay mountain ranges, with over 90% of its territory covered by mountains.
Map References
Tajikistan is located in Central Asia.
Area – Comparative
Tajikistan has an area of approximately 143,100 sq km, slightly smaller than the state of Wisconsin.
Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Tajikistan shares a total of 3,651 km of land borders with the following countries:
- Afghanistan: 1,357 km
- China: 477 km
- Kyrgyzstan: 984 km
- Uzbekistan: 1,312 km
Coastline
Tajikistan is a landlocked country with no coastline.
Maritime Claims
As a landlocked country, Tajikistan has no maritime claims.
Climate
Tajikistan has a continental climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The climate is arid to semi-arid, with significant variations due to elevation differences. The mountain regions have cooler temperatures and higher precipitation levels.
Terrain
Tajikistan is a mountainous country, with the Pamir and Alay mountain ranges dominating its landscape. The country also features valleys, such as the Fergana Valley in the northwest and the Gissar-Alai valley system in the west.
Elevation Extremes
- Highest Elevation: Qullai Ismoili Somoni (formerly Communism Peak) at 7,495 m
- Lowest Elevation: Syr Darya (Syr Daryå) river at 300 m
Natural Resources
Tajikistan’s major natural resources include hydropower, some petroleum, uranium, mercury, brown coal, lead, zinc, antimony, tungsten, silver, and gold.
Major Bodies of Water
Tajikistan has several significant rivers and lakes, including:
- Syr Darya River (shared with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan)
- Amu Darya River (shared with Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan)
- Karakul Lake
- Sarez Lake
Natural Hazards
Tajikistan is prone to the following natural hazards:
- Earthquakes
- Landslides
- Avalanches
- Floods
- Droughts
Geography – Notes
Tajikistan’s mountainous terrain and limited resources pose significant economic and environmental challenges. The country relies heavily on hydropower and has significant potential for further development in this sector. However, water management and distribution among neighboring countries are ongoing issues.
- Forest Area (% of land area): 3.00%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: 5,31. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
- Agricultural Land( %). 34.10%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 38.86103471.276093.
- Capital: The capital of Tajikistan is Dushanbe
- Major Cities:
- Dushanbe – Population: 802,700
- Khujand – Population: 171,100
- Kulob – Population: 100,000
- Qurghonteppa – Population: 87,400
- Istaravshan – Population: 53,200
- Population: 9,321,018
- Area(Km2): 144100
- Population Density( P/Km²):68. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:992
- Official Language(s):Tajikistan is Tajik (official) 80.9%, Uzbek 15.3%, Russian 1.1%
- Currency: TJS
Main Economic Indicators
Economic Overview
Tajikistan has a small, low-income economy that is heavily reliant on remittances from migrant workers and exports of minerals, cotton, and aluminum. It faces significant economic challenges, including high levels of poverty, corruption, and a lack of infrastructure and investment. The government has prioritized economic reforms and the diversification of the economy, but progress has been slow.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
7.5% (2022 est.)
8.7% (2021 est.)
(Source: CIA World Factbook)
Credit Ratings
Standard & Poor’s: B-
Moody’s: B3
Fitch: B-
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 19.2%
Industry: 25.9%
Services: 54.9%
(2022 est.)
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Cotton, fruits, vegetables, grains, livestock
Industrial Products: Aluminum, zinc, lead, chemicals, machinery, textiles
Labor Force
2.385 million (2022 est.)
Ranking: 115th in the world
Current Account Balance
-$274 million (2022 est.)
Ranking: 88th in the world
Exports and Imports
Exports: $1.22 billion (2022 est.)
Key Partners: Turkey, Russia, Kazakhstan, China, Switzerland
Main Commodities: Aluminum, electricity, cotton, fruits, vegetable products, textiles
Imports: $3.62 billion (2022 est.)
Key Partners: Russia, Kazakhstan, China, Turkey, Uzbekistan
Main Commodities: Machinery and equipment, oil and oil products, foodstuffs
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
$1.79 billion (2022 est.)
- GDP (Current US$):$8,116,626,794. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
- Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 9.80%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
- Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): 67.30%. This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
- Gasoline Price. $0.71. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
- Minimum wage. $0.23. It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
- Unemployment Rate (%): 11.02%. It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.
Social Indicators
National Identity
Noun: Tajik(s)
Adjective: Tajik
Ethnic Groups
- Tajik 84.3%
- Uzbek 13.8%
- Others 2% (including Kyrgyz, Russian, Turkmen, Tatar)
Religions
- Islam 98% (Sunni Islam 95%, Shia Islam 3%)
- Other 2% (including Christian, Buddhist, Jewish, and other religious minorities)
Age Structure
- 0-14 years: 32.74%
- 15-64 years: 63.31%
- 65 years and over: 3.95%
Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 57.9
Youth dependency ratio: 51.7
Elderly dependency ratio: 6.2
Median Age
Total: 22.9 years
Male: 22.4 years
Female: 23.5 years
Lifestyle Indicators
- Obesity rate: 16.6% of the adult population
- Alcohol consumption: 1.2 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
- Tobacco use: 16.6% of the adult population
- Life expectancy at birth: 68.8 years (total population)
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 70.9. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
- Literacy Rate (% of adults): 99.7%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
- Birth Rate:30.76. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
- Death Rate:5. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
- Fertility Rate: 3.59. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
- Internet Users (% of population): 20.1%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
- Urban Population: 2,545,477. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
- Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):63.10%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.
Infrastructure and Services
Military and Security Forces
The military of Tajikistan consists of the Ground Forces, Air and Air Defense Forces, and Mobile Forces, which are responsible for border security. The Ground Forces include the elite Airborne Forces and Special Forces brigades. The National Guard is a paramilitary force under the National Security Committee, responsible for internal security and counterterrorism operations.
Military Expenditures
Tajikistan’s military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:
- 2022: 1.1%
- 2021: 1.2%
- 2020: 1.1%
- 2019: 1.1%
- 2018: 1.0%
Tajikistan’s military spending ranks relatively low globally, placing it around the 120th position among countries by military expenditure.
Personnel Strengths
Tajikistan has approximately 23,000 active military personnel, with the following breakdown:
- Ground Forces: 16,000
- Air and Air Defense Forces: 3,000
- Mobile Forces: 4,000
The National Guard is estimated to have around 3,000 personnel.
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Tajikistan’s military equipment primarily consists of Soviet-era hardware, including T-72 main battle tanks, BMP infantry fighting vehicles, and various artillery systems. The Air Force operates a limited number of aging aircraft, such as Su-25 attack aircraft and Mi-8/Mi-24 helicopters. Tajikistan has been seeking to modernize its military through acquisitions from Russia and other countries, including small arms, armored vehicles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Military Service Age and Obligation
Military service in Tajikistan is compulsory for men aged 18 to 27, with a service period of 24 months. There are provisions for alternative civilian service for those who are conscientious objectors or unfit for military service.
Military Deployments
Tajikistan contributes a small contingent of troops to the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) Collective Operational Reaction Force, which is a rapid reaction force for the CSTO member states. The country also participates in counterterrorism operations and joint military exercises within the CSTO framework.
Strategic Military Notes
Tajikistan’s defense strategy focuses on securing its borders, particularly with Afghanistan, and countering threats from extremist groups and drug trafficking. The country relies heavily on military cooperation with Russia and the CSTO for training, equipment, and security assistance. Tajikistan’s military plays a role in regional security, primarily through its involvement in CSTO operations and initiatives.
- Armed Forces Size: 9500. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
- Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 1.7
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 42.00%. This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.