Talking within the capital Bishkek, Volker Türk, UN Excessive Commissioner for Human Rights acknowledged the nation’s latest financial development however cautioned that narrowing house for civil society and press freedom might undermine progress.
“For societies to thrive, they want to be rooted in human rights, non-discrimination and the rule of legislation. This additionally reassures traders,” he mentioned.
“An enabling atmosphere, constructed on stable foundations of good governance, respect for human rights and the rule of legislation, is good for business,” he added.
Mr. Türk was on a two-day official visit 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 latest authorized and political developments threaten to undermine positive aspects.
He pointed to rising restrictions on civil society, the legal prosecution of journalists and activists.
“We are seeing worrying indicators of undue restrictions on civil society and impartial 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 strain in finishing up their important work,” he mentioned.
Encourage dialogue
Authorities restrictions on peaceable meeting – in place since 2022 – can also be of concern, Mr. Türk mentioned, noting ongoing discussions over lifting the blanket ban.
He urged authorities to conduct a complete evaluate of laws affecting elementary rights and freedoms, guaranteeing that Kyrgyzstan aligns with its worldwide human rights obligations.
“This could possibly be a part of the very welcome means of creating 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 numerous elements of the Authorities,” he mentioned.
Constructive steps
Mr. Türk additionally acknowledged latest 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 observe this mannequin of stakeholder engagement in reviewing different legal guidelines.
“There needs to be zero tolerance for harassment and intimidation of impartial legal professionals, journalists, bloggers and human rights defenders,” he harassed.
Surroundings 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 known 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 appropriate to a clear, wholesome and sustainable atmosphere,” he mentioned.
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