The human rights record of Kyrgyzstan was examined for the fourth time in the 49th session of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group of the United Nations Human Rights Council on April 28, 2025. The review looked into progress made since the previous UPR in 2020 and touched on ongoing human rights issues.
Kyrgyzstan’s report at the 49th UPR session underscored a declining human rights situation, particularly in relation to civic space, freedom of expression, gender-based violence, and accountability for violations. UN member states and stakeholders called for inclusive legal reforms, safeguarding vulnerable groups, and earnest implementation of past commitments to enhance the human rights situation.
An overview of achievements and progress
The Kyrgyz Republic’s pledges to safeguard refugees and stateless individuals are praised by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Specifically, the Kyrgyz Republic made two commitments to the Global Compact on Refugees in December 2021 to provide access to healthcare for refugees and asylum seekers and social protection comparable to that of citizens, which was partially achieved, and to provide machine-readable travel papers to stateless people and refugees.
Additionally, the government and academic community made eight additional commitments at the 2023 Global Refugee Forum that included improving RSD processes, gathering statistics, expanding access to secondary education, and providing free legal help.
The 2020 clause that prohibited the registration of asylum petitions for individuals who returned to their country of origin and were compelled to flee again for the same or different reasons was eliminated by the 2023 revisions made to the 2002 Law on Refugees. This improvement made it easier for denied asylum applicants to submit applications under new conditions, which is relevant to the present state of affairs in Afghanistan and line with the norms of international refugee law.
Key concerns highlighted in the review
- Shrinking civic space and restrictions on civil society
Since the previous UPR, pressure on civil society, independent media, and human rights defenders has been heightened in Kyrgyzstan. The passage of the 2024 “foreign representative” law places severe controls and stigmatizing conditions on foreign-funded NGOs, jeopardizing their freedom to function. The law has received extensive criticism from civil society and international actors for being non-compliant with international norms and for potentially silencing dissenting voices.
- Freedom of expression and media
Authorities have targeted journalists, bloggers, and activists with increased harassment and the use of restrictive legislation to suppress dissent. The CIVICUS Monitor now classifies Kyrgyzstan’s civic space as “repressed.”
- Violence against women and girls
Sexual violence continues to be a priority issue, with weak laws and continued obstacles to justice for survivors. Women and girls with disabilities are at increased risk, particularly in institutions, and face discriminatory standards of evidence and restricted access to support services.
- Torture and ill-treatment
Additionally, Although it endorses recommendations to avoid torture, its complaints are seldom investigated, and there is rampant impunity. Legal representation is not accessible to most detainees, and medical professionals rarely record evidence of torture.
Key recommendations and proposals
- Civic space and freedom of association
Repeal the “foreign representative” law and keep legislation from inhibiting the freedom of NGOs to operate. Safeguard civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders from intimidation and harassment. Cease targeting critical voices and ensure media can operate independently and without fear of reprisal.
- Violence against women and girls
Amend laws to insert a consent-based definition of rape and eliminate discriminatory standards of evidence. Give full training to law enforcers, the judiciary, and social workers on how to deal with gender-based violence cases, particularly cases involving women and girls with disabilities. Enhance social support networks for survivors and vulnerable groups.
- Torture and ill-treatment
Strengthen amendments to the Criminal Code to provide penalties for ill-treatment and torture. Create an independent agency to probe charges of torture and provide effective access to justice for survivors. Enhance detention conditions and provide legal representation for detainees. Provide equal access to inclusive education and reasonable accommodations in justice and public life. Harmonize disability rights and domestic violence laws with UN conventions.
