Tajikistan media guide

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, Newspaper circulation figures are low

Government pressure has forced many independent media to close and has driven dozens of journalists into exile.

The authorities dictate editorial policy, obstruct critical reporting and repress all forms of opposition. The government uses the fight against terrorism as a means of controlling the media.

Television is the most popular medium, although it is losing ground to online media. Internet access is limited by high costs and slow speeds, especially in rural areas

The authorities routinely block websites and social platforms over critical content.

Newspaper circulations are low and many titles struggle financially.

Some exiled journalists have set up media outlets abroad, which are gaining in popularity inside Tajikistan.

There were 4.25 million internet users by February 2024, comprising 41.6% of the population (Datareportal.com).

News agencies

  • - private, reports in Russian, Tajik and English
  • - national state-run news agency, in Tajik, Russian, Persian, Arabic and English

Online

  • - website of Group 24, in Tajik, Russian and English
  • - website of the Forum of Tajik Freethinkers (FAF), in Tajik, Russian and English
  • - website of the National Committee for the Rescue of Political Hostages and Prisoners in Tajikistan (NCRPHPT)

Press

  • - government-owned, in Tajik, three times a week

Television

  • - state-run; networks include flagship Tojikiston and regional channels
  • SMT (Independent Television of Tajikistan) - private, Dushanbe

Radio

  • - Dushanbe, private
  • Radio Imruz - private, available in all regions
  • - Khujand, private
  • - Dushanbe, private
  • Tajik Radio - state-run, networks include flagship Radio Tajikistan