Talking within the capital Bishkek, Volker Türk, UN Excessive Commissioner for Human Rights acknowledged the nation’s current financial progress however cautioned that narrowing area for civil society and press freedom may undermine progress.
“For societies to thrive, they must be rooted in human rights, non-discrimination and the rule of legislation. This additionally reassures buyers,” he stated.
“An enabling atmosphere, constructed on strong foundations of fine governance, respect for human rights and the rule of legislation, is nice for enterprise,” he added.
Mr. Türk was on a two-day official go to to Kyrgyzstan, throughout which he met prime officers, together with President Sadyr Zhaparov. He additionally held conferences with civil society representatives in addition to media representatives.
Kyrgyzstan at an inflection level
The UN rights chief additionally highlighted that the nation is at an “inflection level”, the place current authorized and political developments threaten to undermine positive aspects.
He pointed to growing restrictions on civil society, the legal prosecution of journalists and activists.
“We’re seeing worrying indicators of undue restrictions on civil society and impartial journalism, making a local weather of accelerating worry and self-censorship,” he stated, stressing additionally the necessity to assure independence of the judiciary.
“Judges [must] not really feel political stress in finishing up their important work,” he stated.
Encourage dialogue
Authorities restrictions on peaceable meeting – in place since 2022 – can also be of concern, Mr. Türk stated, noting ongoing discussions over lifting the blanket ban.
He urged authorities to conduct a complete evaluate of laws affecting basic rights and freedoms, guaranteeing that Kyrgyzstan aligns with its worldwide human rights obligations.
“This may very well be a part of the very welcome strategy of growing a Nationwide Motion Plan for Human Rights and ought to be carried out with the significant participation of civil society, together with teachers, in addition to numerous elements of the Authorities,” he stated.
Optimistic steps
Mr. Türk additionally acknowledged current optimistic steps within the nation, together with the withdrawal of a draft media legislation that was discovered to be inconsistent with human rights requirements.
He urged the Authorities to observe this mannequin of stakeholder engagement in reviewing different legal guidelines.
“There ought to be zero tolerance for harassment and intimidation of impartial legal professionals, journalists, bloggers and human rights defenders,” he pressured.
Atmosphere motion
The Excessive Commissioner additionally highlighted the pressing want for environmental motion, significantly to deal with air air pollution in Bishkek, which ranks among the many most polluted world cities – particularly in winter.
He referred to as on the Authorities to strengthen air high quality laws and guarantee public participation in environmental impression assessments, particularly in extractive actions.
“Respiration clear air is a key factor of the suitable to a clear, wholesome and sustainable atmosphere,” he stated.
