I do not want to belong to those who become disappointed in ideas of democracy, humanity and justice. I believe that sometimes the saddest event in one’s life can stimulate one to improve oneself.

Fatimakhon Ahmedova received a B.S. in sociology and linguistics and an M.S. in international human rights law. She completed courses in humanities and English language for professionals at the Aga Khan Foundation. Originally from Khojand, a small city in Tajikistan, Fatimakhon now often visits numerous countries for international conferences and seminars. She fights corruption and bribery often at risk to her own life and career. She is also a teacher and works for the Center for Democratic Transformations in Tajikistan.

Fatimakhon Ahmedova is a researcher on human rights violations, ethnic minorities, prisoners, ethnic conflicts, and corruption. Her dedication to the pursuit of human rights has led her to meet with the security services in Tajikistan several times, feeling on each occasion that her own safety had been compromised. Fortunately, nobody dared to challenge her as she has always been open about her work and has an obviously untainted reputation. Currently working part-time at the Khojand State University in Tajikistan, teaching linguistics and humanities, Fatimakhon also works for the Center for Democratic Transformations. People from all walks of life, especially the impoverished, former women detainees, students, and even children, all lacking resources to pay for legal advice, come to her office seeking assistance. On one occasion, after visiting a local orphanage and a home for elderly people, she decided to organize a permanent committee for making holiday gifts for the elderly, and worked towards organizing two housing facilities for disabled persons and two orphanages. Her students say that if they become teachers they would like to be like Fatimakhon – honest, fair, and always smiling. Many young girls see her as a role model due to the outstanding contribution she continues to make. “Corruption, bribes, unemployment, terribly low salaries, and uneducated leaders within the educational system, are all factors we have to deal with everyday. Due to my family and my mother in particular, I was able to finish my education, find interesting jobs and see the world with open eyes. Not everyone is so fortunate,” she says.

Center for Democratic Transformations (CDT)