In 1997, the American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative (ABA ROLI) launched its engagement in Tajikistan. Since that time, ABA ROLI has engaged in programs supporting the main pillars of the justice sector as well as nongovernmental organizations and law students. Currently, ABA ROLI works to increase the capacity and professionalism of the country’s legal professionals and to improve the protection of citizens’ rights. ABA ROLI assists legislative and institutional reform efforts to improve the quality of legal representation, develops practical legal resources and works to strengthen the criminal defense bar. ABA ROLI also helps young lawyers prepare for the evolving practice of law by collaborating with law schools to provide practical and interactive courses that develop students’ critical thinking skills.