Speaking within the capital Bishkek, Volker Türk, UN Excessive Commissioner for Human Rights acknowledged the nation’s current financial progress however cautioned that narrowing house for civil society and press freedom might undermine progress.
“For societies to thrive, they have to be rooted in human rights, non-discrimination and the rule of legislation. This additionally reassures buyers,” he mentioned.
“An enabling surroundings, constructed on stable foundations of fine governance, respect for human rights and the rule of legislation, is sweet 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 beneficial properties.
He pointed to rising restrictions on civil society, the legal prosecution of journalists and activists.
“We’re seeing worrying indicators of undue restrictions on civil society and unbiased journalism, making a local weather of accelerating concern and self-censorship,” he mentioned, stressing additionally the necessity to assure independence of the judiciary.
“Judges [must] not really feel political stress in finishing up their important work,” he mentioned.
Encourage dialogue
Authorities restrictions on peaceable meeting – in place since 2022 – can be of concern, Mr. Türk mentioned, noting ongoing discussions over lifting the blanket ban.
He urged authorities to conduct a complete assessment of laws affecting basic rights and freedoms, guaranteeing that Kyrgyzstan aligns with its worldwide human rights obligations.
“This could possibly be a part of the very welcome technique of growing a Nationwide Motion Plan for Human Rights and needs to be carried out with the significant participation of civil society, together with teachers, in addition to varied components of the Authorities,” he mentioned.
Optimistic steps
Mr. Türk additionally acknowledged current constructive 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 comply with this mannequin of stakeholder engagement in reviewing different legal guidelines.
“There needs to be zero tolerance for harassment and intimidation of unbiased attorneys, journalists, bloggers and human rights defenders,” he pressured.
Surroundings motion
The Excessive Commissioner additionally highlighted the pressing want for environmental motion, notably to sort out 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 component of the best to a clear, wholesome and sustainable surroundings,” he mentioned.
