EU Calls for Strengthening Democracy and Human Rights in Kyrgyzstan

Reiterating Commitment to Supporting Democratic Development

The European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting democracy and human rights in Kyrgyzstan. In a recent resolution adopted by the EU Parliament, lawmakers emphasized the need for long-term political, diplomatic, financial, and technical support from the EU to help Kyrgyzstan develop its democratic institutions.

Concerns Over Recent Constitutional Amendments

The parliament expressed concern over recent constitutional amendments that have reinforced the prime minister’s powers and undermined the independence of the judiciary. The resolution calls on Kyrgyzstan to promote values such as freedom of expression, association, and assembly, and to ensure the independence of the judiciary.

Urging Progress in Human Rights and Media Freedom

Create a favorable environment for journalists and independent media
Allow banned human rights workers and journalists to enter the country without interference
Promote freedom of expression, association, and assembly
Ensure the independence of the judiciary

Concerns Over Azimjon Askarov’s Life Sentence

The EU parliament expressed dissatisfaction with the life sentence handed down to human rights activist Azimjon Askarov, who documented inter-ethnic violence in 2010. The resolution calls for his immediate release, quash of his conviction, rehabilitation, and provision of reparation.

Tackle corruption, which undermines human rights, equality, trade, and fair competition
Strengthen social progress, good governance, democracy, and inter-ethnic relations
Fully integrate minorities

Economic Diversification and Cooperation with Central Asian Countries

The EU parliament urged Kyrgyzstan to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on China and Russia. The resolution also encouraged cooperation with other Central Asian countries.

Security Concerns and Radicalization in the Region

The resolution acknowledged Kyrgyzstan’s security concerns related to Afghanistan and the fight against radicalization in the region.

Next Steps for the EU

The European Union has instructed its President to forward this recommendation to the Council, Commission, and Vice President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, as well as to the President, Government, and Parliament of Kyrgyzstan.