In Tajikistan, obtaining a driver's license requires no proof of experience or passing of driving tests. Shown here is investigative reporter Yoqubi Said's license, acquired for US$ 500. Photo: Scoop
Government of Tajikistan acts after investigative report
Investigative reporting continues to be rare in Tajikistan where the conditions for independent journalism are difficult. However, a report on corruption in Tajikistan’s Department of Motor Vehicles recently triggered action from the government
Car accidents in Tajikistan lead to casualties on a near-daily basis. A recent investigative report produced by journalist Yoqubi Said with the assistance of the IMS-supported investigative network Scoop, showed that part of the problem stems from corruption in the country’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
Obtaining a driver’s licenses in the Central Asian country requires nothing more than US$ 500. No driving school courses or proof of experience is needed.
Said’s report has now resulted in the Tajik government investigating the problem to put an end to it says Muhayio Nozimova, the local coordinator of Scoop in Tajikistan:
“I have been contacted by the authorities, who wanted to know our sources. I had to explain, that it is impossible, because as journalists, we have to protect our sources. This was accepted by the authorities.”
Inspiring authorities to act
The reaction of the Tajik government is very encouraging says Ota Tiefenböck, the Danish coordinator of Scoop, a network for investigative journalism in Eastern Europe, Central Asia and the Caucasus run by IMS and partners, which provides grants for journalistic investigations:
“Investigations that uncover corruption or something illegal and inspire authorities to investigate or change the system are the main goal of Scoop programme. So of course we are happy and proud, that the investigation might help to improve the system of acquiring driving licenses in the country”, he says.
Scoop is a peer-to-peer network promoting investigative journalism in Eastern Europe. Investigative journalism is a key aspect of IMS’ mission to support initiatives that gradually expand the boundaries of media freedom and free expression. Journalists that are part of the Scoop network are provided with editorial coaching and guidance, access to a wide selection of publishing venues and membership in a global network of media professionals to complete their individually selected investigative reports.
