\n
Speaking in the capital Bishkek, Volker T\u00fcrk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights acknowledged the country\u2019s recent economic growth but cautioned that narrowing space for civil society and press freedom could undermine progress.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor societies to thrive, they need to be rooted in human rights, non-discrimination and the rule of law. This also reassures investors,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAn enabling environment, built on solid foundations of good governance, respect for human rights and the rule of law, is good for business,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n
Mr. T\u00fcrk was on a two-day official visit to Kyrgyzstan, during which he met top officials, including President Sadyr Zhaparov. He also held meetings with civil society representatives as well as media representatives.<\/p>\n
Kyrgyzstan at an inflection point<\/h2>\n
The UN rights chief also highlighted that the country is at an \u201cinflection point\u201d, where recent legal and political developments threaten to undermine gains.<\/p>\n
He pointed to increasing restrictions on civil society, the criminal prosecution of journalists and activists.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are seeing worrying signs of undue restrictions on civil society and independent journalism, creating a climate of increasing fear and self-censorship,\u201d he said, stressing also the need to guarantee independence of the judiciary.<\/p>\n
\u201cJudges [must] not feel political pressure in carrying out their essential work,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Encourage dialogue<\/h2>\n
Government restrictions on peaceful assembly \u2013 in place since 2022 \u2013 is also of concern, Mr. T\u00fcrk said, noting ongoing discussions over lifting the blanket ban.<\/p>\n
He urged authorities to conduct a comprehensive review of legislation affecting fundamental rights and freedoms, ensuring that Kyrgyzstan aligns with its international human rights obligations.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis could be part of the very welcome process of developing a National Action Plan for Human Rights and should be carried out with the meaningful participation of civil society, including academics, as well as various parts of the Government,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Positive steps<\/h2>\n
Mr. T\u00fcrk also acknowledged recent positive steps in the country, including the withdrawal of a draft media law that was found to be inconsistent with human rights standards.<\/p>\n
He urged the Government to follow this model of stakeholder engagement in reviewing other laws.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere should be zero tolerance for harassment and intimidation of independent lawyers, journalists, bloggers and human rights defenders,\u201d he stressed.<\/p>\n
Environment action<\/h2>\n
The High Commissioner also highlighted the urgent need for environmental action, particularly to tackle air pollution in Bishkek, which ranks among the most polluted world cities \u2013 especially in winter.\u00a0<\/p>\n
He called on the Government to strengthen air quality legislation and ensure public participation in environmental impact assessments, especially in extractive activities.<\/p>\n
\u201cBreathing clean air is a key element of the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\n
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