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Story
23 April 2024
Growth of non-custodial sanctions in the Kyrgyz Republic since 2020
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Press Release
23 April 2024
Growth of non-custodial sanctions in the Kyrgyz Republic since 2020
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Press Release
17 April 2024
Protecting Minority Rights: A Practical Guide on Developing Comprehensive Anti-Discrimination Legislation
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Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals in Kyrgyz Republic
The UN and its partners in Kyrgyzstan are working towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. They address the global challenges we face, including those related to poverty, inequality, climate, environmental degradation, prosperity, and peace and justice for development that works for all people. The Goals interconnect and in order to leave no one behind, it is important to act in cooperation.
Press Release
05 March 2024
Mental health, digital health and human resources for health in focus during World Health Organization delegation’s visit to Kyrgyzstan
FRIDAY, MARCH 1, 2024 Bishkek, KYRGYZSTAN – A delegation from the World Health Organization's (WHO) Regional Office for Europe, led by Dr Natasha Azzopardi-Muscat, Director of the Division of Country Health Policies and Systems, visited Kyrgyzstan on February 29th for site visits and meetings with key partners on joint priorities for human resources for health, mental health and digital health. The delegation started with a site visit to the Family Medicine Centre in Alamedin rayon, Chuy oblast. The Centre has been testing a new programme for nurses that emphasizes the importance of increased involvement of patients in the management of their diabetes care, as well as in promoting nutrition and healthy lifestyles. “Involving patients in their own treatment process has proven benefits. When patients are allowed to participate in monitoring and treatment, they become more responsible for their own condition, leading to better health outcomes”, said Dr Azzopardi-Muscat. “This is one of the key messages we continue to build on from last year’s high-level conference on trust and transformation for more resilient and sustainable health systems of the future.” The delegation also met with Dr Mederbek Ismailov, First Deputy Minister of Health and Dr. Aijamal Shambetova, Deputy Minister of Health, to discuss the implementation of WHO’s new Country Cooperation Strategy in Kyrgyzstan, signed in November 2023. The discussion focused on human resources for health -retention, recruitment, management and training, mental health, and also on health financing and primary health care strengthening as the most effective approach to deliver health care services to people. Digital health and the WHO Regional Office for Europe’s Flagship on Digitalization was the focus of the delegation’s meeting with Dr Bakyt Dzhangaziev, Deputy Minister on Digitalization, and Chingiz Beksultanov, Director of the Ministry of Health’s e-Health Centre. The meeting highlighted the role of technology in healthcare and explored opportunities for advancing digital health, as Kyrgyzstan is making important advancements in digital health with its ‘Sanarip MED’ digitalization programme.“The ‘Sanarip MED’ program is a promising innovation, supporting the introduction of digital solutions into health services. With a proper approach, digitalization should significantly reduce administrative and reporting burdens for family doctors and family nurses while enhancing the quality of care”, emphasized Dr Liviu Vedrasco, WHO Representative in Kyrgyzstan.The visit concluded with a meeting between the WHO delegation and Ms Antje Grawe, UN Resident Coordinator in the Kyrgyz Republic. The discussion focused on collaborative efforts between WHO and the UN in addressing joint public health challenges, including in the area of digital health, and promoting sustainable development.“WHO works alongside Kyrgyzstan as it continues to deliver on its commitments for health and well-being in line with the Roadmap for Health and Well-being in Central Asia. The Roadmap serves as a powerful health instrument, allowing countries to cooperatively respond to the intersecting challenges affecting them, and seizing opportunities for transformative change for their health systems”, said Dr. Azzopardi-Muscat.This visit serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between Kyrgyzstan, WHO and the UN system in promoting accessible, equitable, and high-quality healthcare for all.
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Press Release
24 January 2023
UN calls for cross-sectoral approach to transform education system in Kyrgyzstan
According to UNICEF’s global report ‘Are children really learning?’, in Kyrgyzstan, more than half of the children aged 10 and attending Grade 3 do not have foundational reading and numeracy skills. It means that in a class of 40 children, only 12 students would be able to read a textbook designed for their age. This learning crisis disproportionally affects the most vulnerable children and is a major driver of inter-generational poverty and inequality. Also, as 38 per cent of the country’s population are currently children under the age of 18, it is estimated that within the next decade, every year, over 350,000 young people will be entering the labour market. Therefore, it is critical to invest in enhancing their employability and specific job skills that prepare them adequately for the local market now.
The UN in the Kyrgyz Republic reiterates its continued support to the realization of Kyrgyzstan’s national commitments, which the Kyrgyz Government articulated during the Transforming Education Summit (TES), convened by the UN Secretary-General in New York in September 2022. These commitments will help accelerate reforms to transform Kyrgyzstan’s education system to make it fitter for the future: more relevant, more inclusive and more adaptive to future challenges. Education plays a critical role in human capital development and can serve to accelerate progress towards national development priorities and all the Sustainable Development Goals. It requires a cross-sectoral approach, and the UN Country Team in the Kyrgyz Republic is committed to supporting such approach, together, in the spirit of this year‘s theme of the International Day of Education: “to invest in people, prioritize education”.
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Press Release
25 January 2023
Switzerland allocates over USD 9 million to support most vulnerable rural communities in climate change and disaster risks resilience
The Government of Switzerland will allocate over USD 9 million for the WFP CSP pillar aimed at building the resilience of the most vulnerable rural communities against climate change and disaster risks. This component is being implemented by WFP in partnership with the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic.
The activities will cover Osh, Batken, Jalalabad and Naryn provinces and support around 250,000 most vulnerable households, as well as targeted local authorities and institutions on the national level to build a systemic approach in managing hazards, such as droughts, mudslides, floods, etc. Reliable and timely climate information, disaster-resilient planning and selected infrastructure support will be provided to the beneficiaries.
Disaster risk management activities will also be strengthened to prepare for climate related hazards and reduce their impact on food and nutrition security. The vulnerable communities will be provided with food security and livestock insurance tools and will be trained on build-back-better mechanisms.
The contribution implementation is foreseen for the next five years.
For more information about the project and WFP, please contact: Almaz Tchoroev, Communications Officer,
tel: +996 550 577 597, email: almaz.tchoroev@wfp.org
For more information on Swiss Development Cooperation, please contact: Tursunai Chodurova, Communications Officer, Swiss Embassy/Bishkek, tel: +996 770 710054, email: tursunai.chodurova@eda.admin.ch
***
The Government of Switzerland provides assistance for the development of the Kyrgyz Republic. Since 1994, Switzerland has granted around CHF 500 million to Kyrgyzstan in the form of technical, financial and humanitarian support. For more information, please visit https://www.eda.admin.ch/bishkek.
Follow us on www.facebook.com/SwissEmbassyKyrgyzstan
www.instagram.com/swissembkyrgyz
The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.
Follow us on https://www.facebook.com/WorldFoodProgrammeKyrgyzstan/, https://www.instagram.com/wfp_kyrgyzstan
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Story
23 April 2024
Growth of non-custodial sanctions in the Kyrgyz Republic since 2020
The prison population amounted to 7728 in 2023, a 20% decrease compared to 2020 (9658 prisoners). Despite the increased number of convictions by 22% from 2020 (5 074) to 2023 (6 202), the number of non-custodial sentences – alternatives to imprisonment – has risen by 55 %. This was reported at a roundtable discussion organized by the Ministry of Justice and UNODC Programme Office in the Kyrgyz Republic on 17 April 2024.In the framework of the EU-co-funded project ‘JUST4ALL’ focusing on the establishment of a probation system and criminal justice information management systems, UNODC conducted an analytical review on the judicial practice on custodial and non-custodial sentences between 2020 and 2023. This research aimed at analysing court decisions on alternatives to incarceration and collecting data to inform evidence-based technical assistance within the mentioned project.An interagency Working Group, formed by the Ministry of Justice’s order #172, was tasked to conduct an analytical review by representatives from the Supreme Court, the General Prosecutor's Office, Prison Service and Probation Department.Mr. Zarylbek uulu Almazbek, Deputy Minister of Justice of the Kyrgyz Republic emphasized that this analysis would help to identify positive aspects and shortcomings in the current system. "This work is necessary and relevant, and we are convinced that it will contribute, among others, to the harmonization of regulatory legal acts, as well as improved cooperation and interaction with government agencies."“The EU-funded “JUST4ALL” project plays a key role in promoting the humanization of the criminal justice system in Kyrgyzstan through strengthening the probation system. The collection and analysis of data on criminal justice is key to inform evidence-based sustainable policies and decision making”, said Mr. Cosimo Lamberti-Fossati, Project Manager from the Delegation of the EU in the Kyrgyz Republic. Highlighting the steady decline of the prison population, a positive trend, the multi-stakeholder roundtable discussion allowed participants – judiciary, government entities, technical experts, civil society organisations, and international partners – to express their views and exchange on several ongoing challenges.The participants highlighted the positive role of the Probation service, and the need for tailored approaches when it comes to the probation clients’ social reintegration and rehabilitation. Further challenges include ensuring probation staff are well equipped to address the needs of probation clients by creating appropriate working conditions and tackling the high turnover rate of probation officers, to ensure the trainings’ sustainability, including those conducted within the project.Participants also agreed on the need to strengthen multistakeholder synergies when implementing alternatives to detention. UNODC International Project Coordinator, Mr. George Abadjian, underlined that ‘the EU-funded JUST4ALL creates a platform to exchange on relevant topics in the criminal justice system, also going beyond the project main outcomes”. This is a significant result of the project – bringing stakeholders around a table and allowing them to exchange in an open and trustworthy environment.Participants also pointed out to the JUST4ALL interventions supporting the Probation system, including the support to the draft State Programme on Development of Penitentiary and Probation System for 2024-2028 and the development of the risk and needs assessment tool that will be the cornerstone for tailored programs for probation clients.JUST4ALL builds on the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for Non-custodial Measures (the Tokyo Rules), encouraging Member States to develop non-custodial measures within their legal systems to provide alternatives, thus reducing the use of imprisonment, as well as to rationalize criminal justice policies, considering human rights, the requirements of social justice and the rehabilitation needs of the offender.for more information contact Vasilina Brazhko Communications Analyst at EU/UNODC Just4All project at +996775987817 WhatsApp or cellphone
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Story
29 March 2024
Refugee, DAFI scholar and future peacebuilder
Alina* was only four years old when she came to the Kyrgyz Republic with her mum, dad and baby brother, fleeing widespread violence, insecurity and human rights abuses in Afghanistan.Being so young, she has few memories from that time.“I don’t remember anything from my hometown,” says Alina. “But I remember when we first came here, my mother was always crying.”Recognised as refugees by the Kyrgyz Republic, Alina’s family were issued with temporary permits, renewable annually, allowing them to stay in the country and access some rights and services, including education. So when she was 7 years old, Alina started first grade.As a young refugee, however, Alina didn’t know Kyrgyz or Russian languages. She was not able to read or write these languages, and struggled to keep up with the other children in her class.That summer, despite her young age, she was determined to make things better.“During summer, my dad really helped me to improve my reading and writing,” says Alina. “A neighbour where my dad was working was also helping me. The grandmother of a friend was helping me. I am grateful for the good people surrounding me through that difficult period.”By grade 4, Alina was among the top of her class.“I am grateful for the good people surrounding me through that difficult period.”Aiming higherIn the Kyrgyz Republic, while refugee children can go to public primary and high schools, tertiary education is different. Unable to compete on par with citizens for government grants, the only possibility for refugees to go to university is if they pay for it themselves. Like many refugee families, this was impossible for Alina’s.“A friend offered for me to go with her to do an entrance exam for university,” says Alina. “I passed the exam – and she did not, that was awful! – and got interested in finding a way I could study there, because obviously the fees were really high.”As a member of the Refugee Youth Group, a sort of social, support and development network coordinated by UNHCR in the Kyrgyz Republic, Alina had received information about DAFI, the Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative scholarship programme. Recalling these sessions, Alina reached out.“My parents took credit to pay for the first years’ fees, and I got a DAFI scholarship in sophomore (second) year,” she says with pride.Looking inwardsEach year, students from around the world come to the Kyrgyz Republic to study. Engaging with so many new people, from so many different countries, forced Alina to look inwards.“I was really fascinated by the students,” says Alina. “This diverse community opened my eyes, but I had an identity crisis. Was I local or was I Afghan? I was somewhere in between. I had friends among local students and friends among Afghan students. I had this fear that if I introduced myself as Afghan, they would not talk to me.”Inspired by her university classes, Alina reflected on what this all meant.“We had these philosophy classes that aimed at developing our critical thinking. I questioned many things, my style of life, my group of friends, my relationship with my family.”By her third year at university, Alina felt more settled. “I understood that I was born in Afghanistan, and that I should never forget my culture, my people, or our customs, but at the same time I’m living in a different country, my second homeland, and I have family and friends here,” she says. “I was really happy that I was born in Afghanistan and raised in Kyrgyzstan, and in this way, I have a multidimensional view on life.”With a clearer mind and lighter heart, Alina committed to completing her studies, as well as serving the community, participating in volunteering initiatives to clean Bishkek city, plant trees, and collect clothes for orphanages.Thanks to the DAFI scholarship programme, in 2018 Alina graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with honours, and started applying for jobs. She now works with a Swiss foundation that focuses on reducing violence and building peace.Bringing people together“I was interested in this position because they work in mediation of conflicts in society, between governments and people. They also work on social cohesion to unite people,” says Alina. “At the same time, in Afghanistan, there is this constant conflict. I really want to get this experience of how organizations work on these issues and bring people together.”Currently, the Kyrgyz Republic does not issue machine-readable travel documents for refugees and stateless people, which means they cannot go abroad. Following recommendations submitted by UNHCR, the amended Law on Refugees, effective 2 May 2023, includes the introduction of procedures to issue travel documents to refugees.For curious and determined youth like Alina, this is extremely exciting news. “My biggest dream is to travel the world. I really want to go out and see how other people live, how they solve their problems, what issues they face.”“And one day, if I get the opportunity, I can bring some contribution to my own country, to be of help to my own people.” * Name changed for protection of the individual.
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Story
29 March 2024
New home and new beginning
In March 2021, the government with the support of UNICEF and other partners repatriated 79 Kyrgyzstani children from Iraq under the humanitarian mission “Meerim” meaning “Mercy”. The repartriation and reintegratio activities were implemented within EU-UN co-funded programme supporting the States in Central Asia for their citizens returned from Syria and Iraq.Adina Mahidilova (name and surname changed) recalls the day her two nephews arrived in Jalal-Abad, in the southern region of Kyrgyzstan: “My nephews were very frightened. They didn't hug me or take my hand like my children did. And I was very worried about their condition.” Her worries were combined with financial problems. When the children arrived, Adina didn't even have a home. She rented an apartment where she lived with her two children, and it was difficult for her to now look after her two nephews.To smooth the reintegration of the children, UNICEF supported the family.“UNICEF helped us. They allocated money to us to buy necessary things such as clothing, shoes and stationery for school”, - says the guardian of children Adina.The two boys had to adapt to the school curriculum and to life in a new place. “I made the decision to bring the two boys to the school," recalls the head teacher of the elementary school, Zulfiya Kiyalbekova (name changed). It wasn’t even a question; I just could not leave the children without education. Yes, it was concerning but UNICEF came with the help. They conducted training sessions and seminars for teachers and explained what problems we could face and how we could solve them.”And there were many problems. Apart from the language barrier, there were also mental difficulties. An older boy had seen his father and brother killed by a bomb. After what he saw, he stopped talking and smiling. Aman (name changed) didn't know how to read and write but now knows five letters and five numbers. And one more thing - at first, he was quiet and didn't want to eat. UNICEF specialists arrived on time with educational lectures, gave him books and I started to work. Now he comes up and tells me what he liked about the food he ate, what he dreamed about, and what he had at home, which is a great achievement. But there is still work to do. He needs extra time to complete the learning tasks we set. "Often, I stay with him individually for lessons, we learn words and practice speaking Kyrgyz,”- said teacher Feruza Abdulayeva (name and surname changed). The teacher of the eldest boy, who had been teaching at the school for only two years, echoed her words and was at first baffled by the fact that there was a mute boy in her class.“At the institute we were told that there are such children, but no one explained how to help them in the classroom or how to help them to start playing with their classmates. Specialists from UNICEF taught us from scratch. They walked this path of integration with us. You see, it is difficult to introduce a child with a disability into a classroom, even more difficult when he does not understand the language, was born and raised in a different - very dangerous - place. But we managed,” - said Zukhra Yusupova (name and surname changed), the class teacher.She noted that such experience was also useful for children because they learned tolerance, and they acquired skills to communicate with their classmates who were different from them. “Now, if a child with a disability or from a different language background is brought to another class, I can help their teacher. I have been taught and I can now support others.,” Zukhra concluded.
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Story
27 March 2024
Op-ed article by Dr. Liviu Vedrasco, WHO Representative to Kyrgyzstan on tuberculosis control
Tuberculosis still remains one of the main threats to human health, especially in developing countries, where lack of access to medical services and social programs creates favorable conditions for the spread of the disease.According to the latest WHO data, 1.3 million people died of tuberculosis in 2022, 10.6 million people fell ill with TB in 2022 and 75 million lives saved since 2000 by global efforts to end tuberculosis.In Kyrgyzstan, the issue of tuberculosis remains relevant and requires constant attention. Despite significant efforts by the Government and international organizations to combat this disease, the number of tuberculosis cases in the country remains high. This requires further improvement of programs to control the incidence and spread of tuberculosis.In Kyrgyzstan, we have made some progress in the fight against tuberculosis thanks to national control programs and partnerships with international organizations, medical professionals and civil society. However, much more work is needed to accelerate progress towards the ambitious goals set out in the WHO Tuberculosis Strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals.In 2023, the incidence of tuberculosis in the Kyrgyz Republic significantly decreased compared to previous years, according to the operational data of the National Center for Phthisiology. 4,183 new cases and recurrences of tuberculosis have been registered, which is 59.9 per 100,000 population. In 2022, this figure was 4,568 cases with an incidence of 65.5 per 100,000 population, and in 2021 - 4,596 cases with an indicator of 68.7 per 100,000 population.The mortality rate from tuberculosis in 2023 was 2.6 per 100,000 population (182 cases), in 2022 – 2.5 per 100,000 population (176 cases), and in 2021 – 3.8 per 100,000 population (257 cases).First of all, we must prioritize strengthening health systems to ensure universal access to quality tuberculosis services, including early diagnosis, appropriate treatment and patient-centered care. This requires investments in infrastructure, human resources, laboratory capabilities and innovative technologies for the effective detection and treatment of this disease.In addition, we must address the social determinants of tuberculosis, such as poverty, housing conditions, malnutrition and lack of access to medical care. Tuberculosis affects the most vulnerable groups of the population to a greater extent, including migrants, prisoners, miners and people living with HIV/AIDS. By addressing these underlying issues, we can create an environment less conducive to TB transmission and support those at risk.Moreover, we must strengthen efforts to combat drug-resistant tuberculosis, which poses a serious threat to global health security. Kyrgyzstan has made some progress in expanding access to treatment for drug-resistant tuberculosis, but much more work needs to be done to increase the availability of these services and improve treatment outcomes.However, one of the main challenges is the lack of funding and resources for effective tuberculosis control. Despite the efforts of the Government and the support of international partners, funding for tuberculosis control programs is often insufficient to fully reach the population, especially in remote and poor areas.It is very important to remember that tuberculosis is preventable and curable. An important achievement is the expansion of access to the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis. Thanks to the introduction of new technologies and improved accessibility of medical services, it was possible to reduce the time before the start of treatment and improve the results of therapy. However, it is necessary to continue working to raise public awareness of the symptoms and methods of tuberculosis prevention in order to ensure early diagnosis and timely treatment.On this World Tuberculosis Day, we call on the Government, international and non-governmental organizations, as well as the civil society sector in Kyrgyzstan to work together to strengthen measures to prevent the spread of tuberculosis, ensure access to quality medical care and raise public awareness of this problem.Tuberculosis can be defeated only with the joint efforts of all stakeholders. Let's join our efforts and overcome this challenge together!As the WHO representative in Kyrgyzstan, I stand in solidarity with the Government, medical professionals, civil society and our international partners in the fight against this disease. Together we can build a healthier, TB-free world for future generations.Dr. Liviu VedrascoRepresentative of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Kyrgyzstan
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Story
20 February 2024
An exhibition of student works "Looking for in Bishkek..." opens in the capital city
The show is a result of a series of art workshops, which happened during the Migration Week on 29 January – 2 February celebrated all over the world. The main theme of the workshops was the place where we all currently happen to live – Bishkek, that used to be a transient waypoint of the Silk Road and is now a vibrant city where different cultures meet.
The workshops brought together youth from different countries and different regions of Kyrgyzstan. While working together on the beautiful artwork, which we all can’t wait to see more closely, students experimented with various materials, techniques, and styles, shared their vision of Bishkek, had an opportunity to work with renown Kyrgyz contemporary artists, and, most importantly, made new friends.
Art is a universal language that brings people together. Art brings people together physically: at workshops and gallery exhibitions like today. Art also brings people together culturally by sharing stories, inspiring reflection and dialogue and forming connections that transcend differences.
United Nations in Kyrgyzstan seeks to ensure that every young person in Kyrgyzstan is empowered to achieve his or her full potential and that young people’s capacities, resilience, and positive contributions as agents of change are fulfilled in line with United Nations Youth Strategy 2030.
The opening ceremony was attended by Antje Grave, UN Resident Coordinator in the Kyrgyz Republic, Bermet Moldobaeva, Head of the International Organisation for Migration office in the Kyrgyz Republic, Gulmira Aitmurzaeva, Director of the Association for Health Promotion, artists, students and other guests.
The exhibition "Looking for in Bishkek..." has become a platform for creative learning and strengthening cultural ties between students of Kyrgyzstan, India, Pakistan and other countries. It presents works by students of the Kyrgyz State Isa Akhunbaev Medical Academy, the Akmatkan Moldogaziev Bishkek Medical College and the International Higher School of Medicine.
The works were made in different techniques and styles. Art workshops were curated by renown Bishkek-based contemporary artists, Aizuura Bakalova, Meder Akhmetov, Munara Abdukakharova and Rakhat Asangulova, and independent art platform, Stage 705. They were organised by the Association for Health Promotion together with the Republican Centre for Health Promotion and Mass Communications of the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic with financial support from the IOM Development Fund.
The exhibition "Looking for in Bishkek..." will last from 16 to 24 February. This is a unique opportunity for all citizens and guests of the capital to see the works of young creators and to discover the theme of intercultural exchange among students from different countries.
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Press Release
23 April 2024
Growth of non-custodial sanctions in the Kyrgyz Republic since 2020
The prison population amounted to 7728 in 2023, a 20% decrease compared to 2020 (9658 prisoners).
Despite the increased number of convictions by 22% from 2020 (5 074) to 2023 (6 202), the number of non-custodial sentences – alternatives to imprisonment – has risen by 55 %. This was reported at a roundtable discussion organized by the Ministry of Justice and UNODC Programme Office in the Kyrgyz Republic on 17 April 2024.In the framework of the EU-co-funded project ‘JUST4ALL’ focusing on the establishment of a probation system and criminal justice information management systems, UNODC conducted an analytical review on the judicial practice on custodial and non-custodial sentences between 202 and 2023. This research aimed at analysing court decisions on alternatives to incarceration and collecting data to inform evidence-based technical assistance within the mentioned project.An interagency Working Group, formed by the Ministry of Justice’s order #172, was tasked to conduct an analytical review by representatives from the Supreme Court, the General Prosecutor's Office, Prison Service and Probation Department.Mr. Zarylbek uulu Almazbek, Deputy Minister of Justice of the Kyrgyz Republic emphasized that this analysis would help to identify positive aspects and shortcomings in the current system. "This work is necessary and relevant, and we are convinced that it will contribute, among others, to the harmonization of regulatory legal acts, as well as improved cooperation and interaction with government agencies."“The EU-funded “JUST4ALL” project plays a key role in promoting the humanization of the criminal justice system in Kyrgyzstan through strengthening the probation system. The collection and analysis of data on criminal justice is key to inform evidence-based sustainable policies and decision making”, said Mr. Cosimo Lamberti-Fossati, Project Manager from the Delegation of the EU in the Kyrgyz Republic. Highlighting the steady decline of the prison population, a positive trend, the multi-stakeholder roundtable discussion allowed participants – judiciary, government entities, technical experts, civil society organisations, and international partners – to express their views and exchange on several ongoing challenges.The participants highlighted the positive role of the Probation service, and the need for tailored approaches when it comes to the probation clients’ social reintegration and rehabilitation. Further challenges include ensuring probation staff are well equipped to address the needs of probation clients by creating appropriate working conditions and tackling the high turnover rate of probation officers, to ensure the trainings’ sustainability, including those conducted within the project.Participants also agreed on the need to strengthen multistakeholder synergies when implementing alternatives to detention. UNODC International Project Coordinator, Mr. George Abadjian, underlined that ‘the EU-funded JUST4ALL creates a platform to exchange on relevant topics in the criminal justice system, also going beyond the project main outcomes”. This is a significant result of the project – bringing stakeholders around a table and allowing them to exchange in an open and trustworthy environment.Participants also pointed out to the JUST4ALL interventions supporting the Probation system, including the support to the draft State Programme on Development of Penitentiary and Probation System for 2024-2028 and the development of the risk and needs assessment tool that will be the cornerstone for tailored programs for probation clients.JUST4ALL builds on the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for Non-custodial Measures (the Tokyo Rules), encouraging Member States to develop non-custodial measures within their legal systems to provide alternatives, thus reducing the use of imprisonment, as well as to rationalize criminal justice policies, considering human rights, the requirements of social justice and the rehabilitation needs of the offender.for more information, contact Vasilina Brazhko Communications Analyst at EU/UNODC Just4All project at +996775987817 WhatsApp & Cellphone
Despite the increased number of convictions by 22% from 2020 (5 074) to 2023 (6 202), the number of non-custodial sentences – alternatives to imprisonment – has risen by 55 %. This was reported at a roundtable discussion organized by the Ministry of Justice and UNODC Programme Office in the Kyrgyz Republic on 17 April 2024.In the framework of the EU-co-funded project ‘JUST4ALL’ focusing on the establishment of a probation system and criminal justice information management systems, UNODC conducted an analytical review on the judicial practice on custodial and non-custodial sentences between 202 and 2023. This research aimed at analysing court decisions on alternatives to incarceration and collecting data to inform evidence-based technical assistance within the mentioned project.An interagency Working Group, formed by the Ministry of Justice’s order #172, was tasked to conduct an analytical review by representatives from the Supreme Court, the General Prosecutor's Office, Prison Service and Probation Department.Mr. Zarylbek uulu Almazbek, Deputy Minister of Justice of the Kyrgyz Republic emphasized that this analysis would help to identify positive aspects and shortcomings in the current system. "This work is necessary and relevant, and we are convinced that it will contribute, among others, to the harmonization of regulatory legal acts, as well as improved cooperation and interaction with government agencies."“The EU-funded “JUST4ALL” project plays a key role in promoting the humanization of the criminal justice system in Kyrgyzstan through strengthening the probation system. The collection and analysis of data on criminal justice is key to inform evidence-based sustainable policies and decision making”, said Mr. Cosimo Lamberti-Fossati, Project Manager from the Delegation of the EU in the Kyrgyz Republic. Highlighting the steady decline of the prison population, a positive trend, the multi-stakeholder roundtable discussion allowed participants – judiciary, government entities, technical experts, civil society organisations, and international partners – to express their views and exchange on several ongoing challenges.The participants highlighted the positive role of the Probation service, and the need for tailored approaches when it comes to the probation clients’ social reintegration and rehabilitation. Further challenges include ensuring probation staff are well equipped to address the needs of probation clients by creating appropriate working conditions and tackling the high turnover rate of probation officers, to ensure the trainings’ sustainability, including those conducted within the project.Participants also agreed on the need to strengthen multistakeholder synergies when implementing alternatives to detention. UNODC International Project Coordinator, Mr. George Abadjian, underlined that ‘the EU-funded JUST4ALL creates a platform to exchange on relevant topics in the criminal justice system, also going beyond the project main outcomes”. This is a significant result of the project – bringing stakeholders around a table and allowing them to exchange in an open and trustworthy environment.Participants also pointed out to the JUST4ALL interventions supporting the Probation system, including the support to the draft State Programme on Development of Penitentiary and Probation System for 2024-2028 and the development of the risk and needs assessment tool that will be the cornerstone for tailored programs for probation clients.JUST4ALL builds on the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for Non-custodial Measures (the Tokyo Rules), encouraging Member States to develop non-custodial measures within their legal systems to provide alternatives, thus reducing the use of imprisonment, as well as to rationalize criminal justice policies, considering human rights, the requirements of social justice and the rehabilitation needs of the offender.for more information, contact Vasilina Brazhko Communications Analyst at EU/UNODC Just4All project at +996775987817 WhatsApp & Cellphone
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Press Release
17 April 2024
Protecting Minority Rights: A Practical Guide on Developing Comprehensive Anti-Discrimination Legislation
On April 16, 2024, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the international NGO Equal Rights Trust convened in Bishkek to launch the Russian-language edition of the Guide. The launch event was also attended by the Chairperson of the Coordination Council on Human Rights Edil Baisalov, representatives from the government and civil society, as well as from the international community. “The Guide provides the main conceptual and substantive elements of anti-discrimination law as understood under international human rights law, as well as concrete country-based practices and practical guidance,” – said Claude Cahn from OHCHR. “It provides support for everyone seeking to act on United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres’s global call in 2021 for all of the States of the world to adopt comprehensive anti-discrimination laws. In the 15 months since its publication in English, the Guide has been translated into multiple languages and used by law- and policy-makers around the world. In addition to an exhaustive research process reviewing the content and interpretation of all of the relevant UN human rights convention, the Guide was the subject of extensive global consultation with academic and civil society experts.” Protecting Minority Rights: A Practical Guide on Developing Comprehensive Anti-Discrimination Legislation is available here Minority Rights, Equality and Anti-Discrimination Law | OHCHR
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Press Release
08 April 2024
Spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights: “Kyrgyzstan’s new “foreign representatives” law risks undermining work of NGOs”
“We have serious concerns that a new law due to come into force in Kyrgyzstan in just over a week’s time will pose a serious threat to the work of numerous civil society organisations in the country, and, more broadly, violate fundamental rights to freedom of expression, association, peaceful assembly and the right to take part in public affairs. Earlier this week, President Sadyr Japarov signed into law the “foreign representatives” bill. This grants the authorities extensive oversight of non-commercial organisations and stipulates that NGOs engaging in what are broadly termed “political activities” and receiving foreign funding must register as “foreign representatives”. Failure to do so could result in their operations being suspended for up to six months, and possibly forced liquidation. The majority of NGOs actively operating in Kyrgyzstan receive grants, including from international organisations and foreign donors. We are concerned that many of the affected NGOs could feel compelled to close to avoid being stigmatised as “foreign representatives”, exposed to arbitrary checks by the authorities, and having to pay for annual audits. Those that choose to be registered as “foreign representatives” could end up having to self-censor. This, in turn, would lead to legitimate public advocacy, human rights monitoring and reporting, and discussion of matters of public interest being seriously stifled.We call on the authorities to repeal the new law and ensure all future legislation fully respects international human rights law and standards. We also urge the authorities to engage in meaningful consultations with all relevant stakeholders, including civil society organisations and human rights defenders in this regard.”
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Press Release
18 March 2024
The European Union (EU) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are working to strengthen the digitalization of healthcare in Kyrgyzstan
In particular, they got acquainted with the immunization information system "iEmdoo" ("iЭмдөө"). During the visit, members of the delegation met with medical workers who actively use digital tools in the daily work of the hospital and the organization of primary health care. They became familiar with the practical application of information systems for birth registration and patient outpatient records.The "iEmdoo" information system was also demonstrated, which allows for personalized records of people receiving vaccines, including planned ones and those carried out for epidemiological reasons. This system, through a digital vaccination card created in the maternity hospital during the first vaccination of a newborn, allows recording information about medical exemptions, possible side effects after vaccination, and other important aspects of the patient’s health throughout life. As noted by the Deputy Minister of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic, Mr. Bakyt Dzhangaziev, data on the vaccination of children is available to their parents through a mobile application, which helps to more actively involve parents in caring for the health of their children. To date, over 2 million digital vaccination cards have been created, which emphasizes the relevance of this information system."This regional project builds up stronger and more resilient health systems in Central Asia. Thanks to the EU support, amounting to 10 million EUR, healthcare sector of Kyrgyzstan is better prepared to respond to global, regional or national health crises", Hans Farhnhammer, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation in Kyrgyzstan. During the visit, Dr. Liviu Vedrasco, WHO Representative to Kyrgyzstan, noted that in the digital era, Kyrgyzstan's focus on strengthening digital health is a strategic step towards achieving universal health coverage. Using technology, the country is taking bold steps to ensure that healthcare is accessible to every citizen. At the end of the visit, members of the delegation discussed vectors for further cooperation and the implementation of the Target Model for the Development of Digital Healthcare "Sanarip MED" and exchanged valuable views and opinions regarding its effectiveness and development prospects.***Additional information: The visit was organized as part of a 4-year EU-funded project in 5 countries of Central Asia – Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan – to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and reinforce the resilience of health systems. Immunization plays a pivotal role in this regard. By supporting Central Asian countries to promote and deliver vaccines safely to the population, infectious diseases can be prevented and controlled more effectively. The EU is investing €10 million into Central Asia’s immunization and health information systems – further modernizing them through digitalization and improving the availability of good-quality data, which is crucial to ensuring high immunization coverage at all times, leaving no one behind.
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Press Release
15 April 2024
Statement by UN Resident Coordinator on the adoption of amendments to the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic “On Non-Commercial Organizations”
Civil society organizations (CSOs) play a vital role, alongside the State and other partners, to advance the country’s socio-economic development, provide essential services to the vulnerable and marginalized, assist those in need during crises, protect human rights and promote peace.The law’s enactment may pose challenges to the effective engagement of civil society in development initiatives, to help alleviate poverty, reduce inequalities and achieve the SDGs. It also has the potential to stigmatize CSOs and civic activists, restrict human rights, and impede public participation and inclusive dialogue.Underlining the essential role a vibrant civil society plays for sustainable development, human rights and democratic governance, the UN Resident Coordinator recommends a more thorough and inclusive review of the law that takes into consideration recommendations from the UN Special Rapporteurs and other national and international partners, including civil society. The UN stands ready to further discuss these recommendations with the authorities and other relevant partners.
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Latest Resources
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Resources
19 February 2024
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