CHF International's Alternatives to Conflict in Tajikistan (ACT) program is an innovative, market-oriented initiative that is providing employment and economic opportunities for young people in northern Tajikistan. This program recognizes that finding employment for young people, particularly among young men between the ages of 15 and 35, is one of the highest priorities for communities living in this region.
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Some of these young, unemployed men, perceiving no other future opportunities may be influenced to engage in violent crime of other nagative forms of behavior. |
In many cases, young people who cannot access income opportunities are obliged to seek work outside Tajikistan. For some of these young unemployed men, the military or other political groups become attractive alternatives while some, perceiving no other future opportunities, may be influenced to engage in violent crime or other negative forms of behavior.
ACT is also establishing community advisory groups to build cooperation between young people and community leaders. These groups provide two-way communication on issues that may complicate economic opportunities and growth for young people in the region.Together, young people, community leaders, and local government identify solutions to these challenges.
In February 2005, the CHF/ACT Program Economic Opportunity Center (EOC) was officially opened in Istaravshan in Isfara, Sogd Region. The EOC serves as a hub through which all services of the ACT program are facilitated. Though most of trainings and apprenticeship activities will be delivered outside of the center, the EOC will be an organizing, assisting and monitoring center for all kinds of ACT Program activities.

