Launch of the “16 Days of Activism Against Violence” Campaign: Focus on the Digital Safety of Women and Girls

The campaign aims to mobilize all sectors of society to counter both digital and offline violence, strengthen government measures and the implementation of the National Gender Equality Action Plan, engage the private sector in advancing digital safety, improve digital literacy among women and girls, and promote a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of violence.

The campaign was officially launched at the National History Museum in Bishkek. The event was organized by the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic with the support of the United Nations system in Kyrgyzstan and brought together senior government officials, representatives of international and non-governmental organizations, local authorities and experts in digital security and women’s rights.

In his remarks, Deputy Chairperson of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic Edil Baisalov stressed the importance of changing public attitudes:

“Reports of family conflicts and incidents of violence continue to be received, but this does not necessarily mean the problem is increasing. In the past, such situations were often concealed. Today, however, civic awareness is growing. People are saying: ‘I do not accept this. I oppose it. I will not become a victim.’ A culture of rejecting violence is emerging. All government institutions will continue to direct their efforts toward protecting women. Statistics reflect not a rise in violence, but a growing willingness among people to report such cases and seek justice.”

United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Kyrgyz Republic Antje Grawe highlighted the growing risks faced by women and girls in the digital environment:

“Digital tools should never become platforms for pressure or intimidation. Such phenomena affect not only children but also women — from cyberstalking to blackmail and sexual threats. When a woman is forced into silence, society loses her voice, her leadership, and her innovative potential. Today we are discussing how to shape Kyrgyzstan’s digital future. Each of us has a role to play. We must support crisis centres and clearly state our position: we stand against all forms of violence, including in the digital space.”

In 2025, the campaign is held under the theme “Building a Digital Space Free from Violence: A National Commitment to the Rights of Women and Girls.” The initiative is led by the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic, with the support of the United Nations system in Kyrgyzstan.

As part of the launch event, a panel discussion titled “Digital Freedom Without Fear: Safety for Everyone!” brought together government representatives, civil society organizations, international partners and experts to examine the growing phenomenon of digital violence against women and girls. Discussions focused on its impact on vulnerable groups, the evolving risks in online spaces, and the challenges faced in prevention and response.

The panel aimed to identify gaps in existing legislation, highlight systemic challenges in cross-sectoral cooperation, and outline priority actions to strengthen coordination at both national and regional levels.

Participants underscored that effectively addressing digital violence requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach, including strengthening the legal framework, expanding digital literacy and awareness, improving response mechanisms for survivors, and deepening cooperation among government institutions, civil society and the private sector.