We live in an era of intense political tensions, rapid globalization, and a crisis of traditional values. In such conditions, every people, nation, and state needs a stable and guiding national ideology–one that reflects the common goals of the nation, strengthens national identity and unity, and leads society toward development and progress.
National ideology is a set of ideas, views, and beliefs that unite the people and ensure their integrity. It includes knowledge of history and ancestry, the formation of national self-awareness, respect for national values, traditional customs, and culture, as well as the enhancement of the nation’s role in the world. National ideology is one of the key elements of political and social life, fostering in people a sense of national pride and unity.
The main functions of national ideology are: consolidating the people, maintaining political stability, protecting national interests, integrating social strata, and promoting scientific, technological, and economic culture – all aimed at the prosperity of the nation.
To form a strong national ideology, several components are essential: the popularization of ancestral history, elevating the status of the native language, developing cultural activities, theater, cinema, literature, and art, promoting education and access to quality learning, harmonizing traditions with modern life – for example, respect for elders alongside mastering modern technologies and lifestyles, democratization to foster communication among social groups, developing economic thinking, and enhancing the country’s standing on the international stage – all of this contributes to the cause of unity and cohesion.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union and the declaration of independence in Tajikistan, a civil war unfortunately broke out. It was only after this conflict that the process of restoring statehood began. Under these difficult circumstances, the need for a national ideology capable of uniting the people and guiding society toward stability and development was especially urgent.
Thanks to the policies pursued by the country’s highest leadership, and in particular the promotion of the idea of National Unity by the Founder of Peace and National Unity – Leader of the Nation, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon, a new phase began in strengthening national ideology. National unity became a symbol of patriotism and the unity of the people, gaining the status of a foundation for state stability and the principal stronghold of national ideals.
National unity has been officially recognized as a key element of state policy, uniting the nation and forming the core of national ideology. Every year on June 27, the Day of National Unity is celebrated – a day commemorating the historic peace, and honoring harmony, agreement, unity, and coexistence.
However, it is important to understand that national unity is not merely a political concept, but above all a social and moral phenomenon. It should be felt at every level – in simple interactions between people, within families, and in neighborhoods. When a person behaves respectfully and communicates with civility in daily life and in society, this is the moral foundation of unity, a manifestation of national unity in everyday living.
Nevertheless, unity should not be perceived solely as mutual understanding in everyday communication. Although that is an important part, the true essence of unity lies in coordinated actions for the prosperity of the state and society — through economic efforts, educational development, cultural strengthening, and an awareness of history and national heritage.
1. In the economic sphere, unity signifies effective cooperation among the state, entrepreneurs, and the population. This cooperation requires the government to create favorable conditions and attract investment, while citizens—acting with a sense of responsibility—develop small and medium-sized enterprises. Everyone must realize that economic development is not only about personal gain, but also about the common good, stability, and prosperity.
Although the state enacts laws aimed at improving people’s lives, these laws are sometimes ignored at the grassroots level. For example, the Law on the Regulation of Celebrations and Ceremonies is intended to prevent extravagance and promote thrift. However, it is often not observed, and local authorities show indifference toward its enforcement. (In many families, financial decisions and expenditures are managed by women, and it is often they who incur excessive costs during weddings and other celebrations. Although the status of women and mothers is highly respected and honored in our society, it might be reasonable to consider assigning responsibility for enforcing this law to the women of the family within the framework of the Law on the Regulation of Celebrations and Ceremonies.)
2. In the sphere of education and upbringing, unity is reflected in the pursuit of knowledge, the development of national intelligence, and the elevation of the role of science and enlightenment. Education must not only be goal-oriented, but also instill respect for national culture.
In the past, it was observed that some young people, after finishing school, sought to leave immediately for work abroad, viewing education as unnecessary. However, in recent years, a positive trend has emerged: young people increasingly encourage their peers to pursue education, engage in scientific activity, and not rely on foreign countries. Education must cultivate individuals in the spirit of patriotism. Yet it is important to understand that patriotism is not merely a feeling–without action for the benefit of the country, this feeling loses its significance.
It should also be recognized that our society holds deep cultural traditions and religious values. Religious figures, such as imams and preachers, enjoy high authority. In their sermons, they address not only religious matters but also important social and educational topics. However, since most of them have primarily religious training, they are not always equipped to competently address modern issues in economics, medicine, psychology, or technology. As a result, they often return to purely religious subjects, which limits their influence on the formation of a secular and scientific worldview.
In this regard, it is necessary to develop professional development programs for religious leaders. Such programs could be organized in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Science, the Committee on Religious Affairs, research centers, and universities.
This would help enhance their civic responsibility and enable them, alongside promoting spiritual values, to contribute to public enlightenment. By using clear and accessible language, they could convey important ideas to society and become an effective part of the educational process.
3. In the sphere of culture and art, unity means the coordinated work of cultural institutions, which play a key role in shaping national consciousness. It is on the stages of theaters and cultural centers where historical wisdom can be united with contemporary issues, influencing the worldview of the audience. Culture and art are not merely decorations or entertainment–they are a source of spiritual nourishment, a means of developing national ideology, and a powerful force for uniting society.
The country’s leadership attaches great importance to the development of national culture. The construction of theaters, museums, and cultural centers represents important steps in this direction. Television also plays a crucial role in promoting culture, fostering self-awareness, and strengthening national unity.
On December 23, a public holiday, we spent the evening watching television programs. On the “TV Dushanbe” channel, a comedy show began, portraying the lives and activities of soldiers. Following that, there was a program titled “From Memories,” featuring an engaging conversation with the People’s Artist of Tajikistan, the esteemed Nurullo Abdullo–well-known as the host of the program “Begharaz Pand,” now called “Andarzi Niyogon.” During the discussion, he shared his thoughts on various cultural topics and recalled a memorable event from the Soviet era.
He told the story of a time when he and a group of actors were performing a play in the city of Vahdat. Suddenly, the electricity went out, the stage was plunged into darkness, and silence fell. The actors considered stopping the performance and rescheduling it, but the audience insisted that the show continue. As a result, the play was completed in total darkness, and when it ended, the audience gave a long round of applause. According to the respected actor, the next day, some of the deeply moved audience members went to the actors’ workplace, shared their impressions, and demanded that the performers receive a salary increase.
Listening to this master’s words, I felt a sense of pride and inspiration–pride that we have such dedicated artists who honorably represent our national culture. However, the content of the comedy show aired earlier gave me pause. Though it was broadcast in honor of the Day of the National Army, it featured scenes where soldiers were portrayed as simple-minded and incompetent, becoming the butt of jokes. Not only were the scenes not genuinely funny, but they also undermined the image of soldiers, who should be seen as symbols of courage and valor.
At the same time, it would be entirely possible to create humorous scenes that, without losing comedic effect, also convey educational messages–showcasing the honorable and respectable service of soldiers while delighting viewers with light, genuine humor that uplifts rather than ridicules.
4. Knowledge of ancestors’ history and respect for national sacred symbols are the spiritual foundation of lasting unity. A society that does not study its history lives in ignorance, while a nation that understands its past and honors its sacred heritage remains strong. The history of the Tajiks has always been linked to the struggle for independence, the preservation of language, culture, and humanistic values. Studying the lives of ancestors not only strengthens historical consciousness but also awakens feelings of pride and responsibility.
History knows many outstanding figures–from the just and enlightened King Cyrus the Great, whom historians regard as a founder of justice and humanism, to freedom fighters and unifiers such as Spitamen, Devastich, Abu Muslim, and Muqanna.
Although historians from many countries have highly valued the legacy of our ancestors, a special role in strengthening national self-awareness and educating the younger generation was played by the three-volume work of the Leader of the Nation, Emomali Rahmon, titled “Tajiks in the Mirror of History: From Aryans to Samanids.” This unique scientific and historical work, published in Tajik, Russian, and English, reflects the centuries-old history of Tajik civilization based on reliable sources. The book covers not only historical events but also moral, cultural, and spiritual aspects of the nation’s history, making it an important educational and formative resource.
5. Unity also means the active participation of youth in public life. Youth are the driving force of society, possessing great creative potential. They should be involved in implementing development projects, improving communities, protecting the environment, mentoring their peers, participating in cultural events, and promoting moral values. Such activities enhance their sense of responsibility and patriotism and help to realize national unity in practice.
However, today it is observed that not all young people use their potential properly. Some, despite having good health and strength, do not strive for personal growth but work as cashiers or taxi drivers. Such activities do not align with the social mission of the younger generation.
Others call themselves bloggers but only share their everyday lives without providing spiritual or educational value; on the contrary, they often spread harmful images and false ideas among their peers. This underscores the necessity for wise and targeted government policies in youth education.
All youth social activity should be constructive, beneficial, and aimed at a bright future. Only by uniting the intellectual, physical, and moral strengths of young people can we strengthen national unity, ensure sustainable development of the country, and nurture an enlightened and responsible generation.
In conclusion, we warmly congratulate all dear compatriots of our country, as well as all Tajiks and Persian-speaking people around the world, on the blessed Holiday of National Unity – a symbol of pride, state integrity, and the cohesion of the people. We sincerely wish every family peace, health, abundance, and blessings, and our society a prosperous and united life, harmonious progress, and steady flourishing.
May the spirit of unity, founded on historical wisdom and the national will of the people, always be a guiding star for political stability, economic development, and the strengthening of national identity.
Director of the S.U. Umarov Physico-Technical Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan Afzalshoh Qahramon Zarifzoda
